Kalon Dawson, a 20-year-old resident of Victorville, California, was fatally shot on April 15, 2017. The incident occurred at approximately 7:20 PM when deputies responded to a call of a shooting at 11517 Village Drive. Upon arrival, they discovered Dawson suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite being transported to a nearby hospital, Dawson succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after.
In the aftermath of Dawson's death, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department
launched an investigation that quickly led to the arrest of two suspects: David Mikel-Anthony Bright, then 17, and Eric Dapri Walton, 18, both of whom were found in a motel room near Village Drive the day after the shooting. A handgun was also recovered at the scene. The arrests were made on the basis of evidence suggesting that the crime was committed for the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with a criminal street gang.
Both Bright and Walton were charged with one count of murder. Initially, Bright was booked into the High Desert Juvenile Detention Center due to his minor status at the time of the crime. However, following his 18th birthday in October 2017, he was transferred to the West Valley Detention Center. Walton was also held at the West Valley Detention Center. Both suspects pleaded not guilty to all charges and allegations. They remained in custody with bail set at $1 million each.
The legal proceedings against Bright and Walton have been ongoing, with court records indicating that their next court date was scheduled for March 8, 2018. The case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of gang-related activities and the young ages of both the victim and the suspects. The community of Victorville has been deeply affected by Dawson's tragic death, and the case continues to be a poignant reminder of the impact of gang violence on individuals and families.
