Trashawn Watkins, a 19-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on June 14, 2021, in Raleigh, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 10:15 p.m. near the Food Lion on Poole Road. Watkins was walking out of the grocery store when he was shot at least once in the chest by someone in a white car. Despite being rushed to WakeMed for treatment, he succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into Watkins' death led to the arrest of Kevin Hart, also 19 years old, who was
charged with first-degree murder. Hart was apprehended shortly after the incident and is being held without bond. In court, he was informed that if convicted, he could face life in prison or the death penalty. The motive behind the shooting is believed to be an argument over a woman.
The community was deeply affected by Watkins' death, with desperate pleas heard in the 911 calls made immediately after the shooting. Witnesses reported hearing several shots fired, and one woman, who was in the McDonald's drive-thru nearby, described the chaotic scene as she implored Watkins to keep breathing while waiting for EMS to arrive.
Raleigh saw a total of 28 homicides in the previous year, and Watkins' death marked one of the 11 homicides in the city up to that point in 2021. The case remains a stark reminder of the violence that can erupt in seemingly ordinary places and the devastating impact it has on families and communities.
