Nijiher Travese Jalynn Bingham, a 10-year-old African American boy, tragically lost his life on March 1, 2018, in Laurinburg, North Carolina. He was a fourth-grade student at Covington Street Elementary School and was known for his love of school and playing with friends. Raised by his grandmother, Lorraine Bingham, and cousin, Nathishaia Bingham, Nijiher was cherished and protected by his family.
On the evening of March 1, 2018, Laurinburg police received a report of an unresponsive
juvenile at a home on Second Street. Emergency medical workers responded, and Nijiher was pronounced dead at the scene from a gunshot wound to the neck. The final autopsy report confirmed that the cause of death was a gunshot wound.
The investigation into Nijiher's death led to the arrest of a 13-year-old boy, who was charged with involuntary manslaughter on April 25, 2018. The suspect, whose name was not released due to his age, was a relative of Nijiher. Laurinburg Police Chief Darwin Williams stated that the investigation was thorough and involved collaboration with the Scotland County District Attorney's Office. The family of Nijiher expressed relief that an arrest had been made and awaited the trial.
Nijiher's death is a heartbreaking reminder of the impact of gun violence on young lives. His family and community continue to mourn the loss of a bright and loving child.
