Fred Douglas Hawkins III, a 26-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on May 18, 2019, in Winston-Salem, NC. Fred, known to family and friends as "Freddie Bandz," was a passionate musician and a beloved father to his daughter, Kaylin "KayKay" Hawkins. He was born in Winston-Salem to Fred Douglas Hawkins Jr. and Tonya Gary Waldo. Fred attended Mt. Tabor High School, where he developed a love for writing and producing music. He was a key member of the music group "Plug Brothers Ent.".
On the night of May 18, 2019, Fred was among five people shot during a large gathering on Cody Drive in Winston-Salem. The shooting occurred just before 11 p.m., and Fred, along with the other victims, was taken to the hospital with injuries. Unfortunately, Fred succumbed to his injuries on May 21, 2019. Another victim, 23-year-old Jalen Cockerham, died at the scene.
The investigation into the shooting revealed that a large crowd had gathered in the area at the time of the incident. Despite the efforts of detectives, many witnesses have yet to come forward or be interviewed. As of now, no suspects are in custody.
In a significant development, Justin Leon Surles Lynch has been identified as a suspect in the murder case. Lynch is currently serving time in prison for another crime and will be served with an outstanding warrant for Fred's murder when his sentence is up in January 2024. The case remains under investigation, and authorities continue to seek information from the public to bring justice for Fred and the other victims.
