Jaqavis Montell Allen, a 24-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on August 1, 2021, in Monroe, North Carolina. Born on November 17, 1996, Allen was the son of Karen Howard and Reginal Allen. He was a resident of Wingate, North Carolina, and left behind two sons, Khazi Crawford and Karter Allen, as well as his sisters, Ladache Davis and Kemora Davis.
On the night of August 1, 2021, Allen was attending a party at a residence on South West Street in Monroe.
An argument broke out between Allen and another individual, leading to a violent altercation. Multiple gunshots were fired, and Allen was found face down in the front yard, suffering from several gunshot wounds. A firearm was discovered beneath him. Despite efforts to save his life, Allen was pronounced dead at Atrium Union hospital.
The Monroe Police Department launched an investigation into the incident, which led to the arrest of 22-year-old Robert Lee Ashcraft III. Ashcraft was charged with first-degree murder, discharging a firearm in an occupied property, and possession of a firearm by a felon. He was apprehended while attending court and was subsequently transported to the Union County Jail, where he was held without bond.
The tragic death of Jaqavis Montell Allen was one of several violent incidents in Monroe during that period. The Monroe Police Chief, Brian Gilliard, and other city leaders called for community action to address the rising violence. They urged churches, community groups, and nonprofits to partner with the city in anti-violence efforts. The Union County Sheriff's Office also increased patrols in collaboration with the Monroe Police Department to curb the violence.
