VaShaun Tremaine Smith Jr., an 18-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on February 26, 2021, in Ahoskie, North Carolina. VaShaun, affectionately known as "Boodie," was a senior at Hertford County High School, where he excelled academically and athletically. He was a member of the National BETA Club, FBLA, and a Career & College Promise Certified Nursing Assistant Student. VaShaun was also a musician and drummer at Mt.
Sinai Missionary Baptist Church and had a profound love for his family and community.
On the night of February 26, 2021, VaShaun was gunned down outside his home on Quail Ridge Lane. The incident occurred shortly after 9 pm, following an altercation between VaShaun and 24-year-old Terrance Terrell Joyner of Cofield. Joyner, who was involved in a love triangle with VaShaun, followed him and his girlfriend from Walgreens in Ahoskie into Bertie County and back into Hertford County. Upon arriving at VaShaun's residence, a physical altercation ensued, during which Joyner assaulted VaShaun and his mother. Shortly thereafter, Joyner produced a handgun and fired at VaShaun, fatally wounding him. VaShaun was rushed to Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Terrance Terrell Joyner immediately turned himself in to the Hertford County Sheriff's Office following the shooting. He was in possession of a handgun, which was seized as evidence. Joyner was formally charged with first-degree murder and detained for questioning. The investigation into the motive for the deadly encounter was ongoing at the time. Joyner was later found guilty of first-degree murder during a three-day trial in Hertford County Superior Court. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
VaShaun's death deeply affected his family, friends, and the community. He was remembered as a well-rounded and model student with a bright future ahead of him. VaShaun had been accepted to North Carolina A&T State University and had dreams of playing college football. His impact on those who knew him was profound, and his loss was felt by many. The community came together to honor his memory and support his family during this difficult time.
