Kaleb Anthony Huskins, a 16-year-old male from Bessemer City, NC, tragically lost his life on March 12, 2022. Kaleb, a student at Community Christian Academy, was known for his love of sports, including baseball, basketball, football, and swimming. He also enjoyed riding four-wheelers, dirt bikes, and playing Fortnite on his Xbox. Kaleb's life was cut short in a tragic incident that has left his family and community in mourning.
On the afternoon of March 12, 2022, Kaleb was at a friend's
house on Dameron Road when he was shot during an attempted robbery. His mother, Ashley Killian-Black, received a phone call informing her of a shooting on that road. Despite her attempts to reach her son, Kaleb did not answer his phone. She later discovered that her teenage son had been shot and killed.
Four individuals were charged in connection with Kaleb's death: Wesley McCullough, 18, of Gastonia; Michael Greely Jr., 18, of Stanley; Justin Peebles, 18, of Charlotte; and Leshantez McDowell, 24, of Charlotte. They were charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon. The suspects had gone to Dameron Road to exchange a gun for two ounces of marijuana possessed by Kaleb's friend, 17-year-old Justin Ezekiel "Zeke" Williams. Instead, they decided to rob Williams. Kaleb, who had been playing basketball, tried to run away but was shot along with Williams. While Williams survived, Kaleb did not.
The suspects were arrested shortly after the incident at a Dollar General in Dallas. During court proceedings, it was revealed that Peebles admitted to being the driver of the car that brought the group to the location and that he backed into the parking space, indicating his awareness of the planned robbery. The District Attorney argued that this showed Peebles' involvement in the conspiracy to commit murder.
Kaleb's family, including his mother, attended the court hearings, seeking justice for their son. They expressed their anger and grief over the loss of Kaleb, who was still a child and had his whole life ahead of him. The family continues to demand justice for Kaleb and hopes that those responsible for his death will be held accountable.
