John David Campbell III, a 26-year-old male from Red Springs, North Carolina, tragically lost his life on July 20, 2019. The incident occurred during a birthday party on Folly Drive in Red Springs. According to reports, an altercation broke out at the party, which had at least 50 attendees. The situation escalated, resulting in a deadly shooting. When deputies arrived at the scene, they found Campbell deceased in the front yard.
Two other individuals, Dusty Chavis, 18, and Chandler Lowery, 20, both from Red Springs, were also injured in the incident and were taken to Southeastern Medical Center for treatment.
The investigation led to the arrest of Zaebrian D. Locklear, a 17-year-old male from Red Springs, who was charged with first-degree murder in connection to Campbell's death. Locklear was taken into custody by the Robeson County Sheriff's Office and the Eastern District of North Carolina U.S. Marshals Service. He was held at the Robeson County Detention Center without bond. Additionally, Jonathan Wayne Clark, a 26-year-old male from Maxton, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and was placed in custody with a $100,000 secured bond.
Gatlin Chavis, a 29-year-old male from Red Springs and the older brother of Locklear, was also arrested during the investigation. Chavis faced charges of misdemeanor probation violation, assault on a government official, communicating threats, and resisting, delaying, and obstructing an officer. He was held at the Robeson County Detention Center with a $10,000 secured bond. The Robeson County District Attorney's Office assisted with the investigation, and authorities urged anyone with information about the case to contact the Robeson County Sheriff's Office.
The tragic death of John David Campbell III and the subsequent arrests highlight the severity of the incident and the ongoing efforts to bring justice to the victim and his family. The case remains a poignant reminder of the impact of violence on communities and the importance of thorough investigations to ensure accountability.
