Ja’eid Watson, a 19-year-old African American male, was tragically shot multiple times in the back on February 17, 2022, while on his way to his grandmother's house in Weldon, North Carolina. His mother, Shawanda Watson, was present during his final moments and urged him to keep breathing until it was too late. Ja’eid had recently graduated from Roanoke Rapids High School and had dreams of starting his own business.
He was known for his love of sports and riding dirt bikes.
The Halifax County Sheriff's Office is investigating the case and believes that Ja’eid knew his assailant. Shawanda Watson mentioned that her son's life had been threatened before in their community. Despite the ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made, and the authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Shawanda Watson has been vocal about seeking justice for her son, describing the perpetrators as "monsters" and "animals" who need to be removed from the community. She has called on the community to help identify the gunman and bring them to justice. The case remains open, and detectives continue to seek leads.
