Chavez Christian Lockhart, a 20-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on May 24, 2017, in Raeford, North Carolina. Chavez was found in the driver's seat of his vehicle with a gunshot wound to his upper body in the area of Mockingbird Hill Road and Heron Drive around 9:40 p.m. on May 24. He was transferred to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, where he died on May 25. Chavez was the son of Bradley Wayne Lockhart and the late Vickie Sue Coleman Lockhart.
He was also the half-brother of Shaniya Davis, a 5-year-old girl who was murdered in 2009.
The Hoke County Sheriff's Office arrested two suspects in connection with Chavez's murder. Devour Roland Hodges Jr., 18, and Davonte Quamar McDuffie, 17, both from Raeford, were charged with first-degree murder and felony conspiracy. Hodges, who had joined the Army, was arrested at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, while McDuffie was arrested at Hoke High School. Both suspects were held at the Hoke County Detention Center without bail. The investigation revealed that drugs might have been involved in the incident.
Chavez's death was a significant loss to his family and community. He was known for his gentle spirit, sense of humor, and respect for others. Chavez attended Lloyd E. Auman Elementary School and graduated from Alger B. Wilkins High School in 2015. He held various positions of employment, showcasing his skills and ambition. Chavez was admired for his sportsmanship and athletic ability in basketball. His smile, personality, and positive energy will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
The investigation into Chavez's murder is ongoing, and the authorities continue to seek justice for his untimely death. The case has drawn attention due to the tragic connection to his half-sister, Shaniya Davis, whose murder in 2009 also shocked the community. Chavez's family and friends remember him as a loving and ambitious young man who treated everyone with respect and kindness.
