Keyshawn Tyrell Gregory, a 13-year-old African American boy, was tragically shot and killed on August 7, 2015, in Raleigh, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. when Keyshawn was found fatally shot inside a car at the intersection of East Jones and North State Street. Following a thorough investigation, it was determined that the shooting took place in the 1400 block of Beauty Avenue, approximately a mile from where Keyshawn was discovered.
The investigation revealed that an exchange of words occurred between at least one of the three occupants of the vehicle in which Keyshawn was traveling and individuals on the street. This altercation led to shots being fired at the vehicle, resulting in Keyshawn being struck and killed.
The Raleigh Police Department swiftly apprehended three suspects in connection with the murder of Keyshawn Tyrell Gregory. Malik Armein Jones, a 19-year-old male, was charged with one count of murder and two counts of attempted murder. Jamal Christopher Howie, also 19 years old, and Jonathan Dejesus Chavez, 18 years old, were each charged with one count of accessory after the fact to murder. Malik Jones was held without bond, and a capital defender was assigned to represent him. The public defender's office was tasked with deciding who would represent Howie and Chavez. Additionally, Howie faced drug charges, and arrest warrants indicated that Chavez had broken into two different vehicles and stolen thousands of dollars worth of electronics and power tools just two days after the shooting.
Keyshawn Gregory was a standout player on his team for the Swish City Magic Basketball League. His coach, Anthony Jo Brown, expressed his deep sorrow over the loss, stating that Keyshawn had 13-year-old dreams and aspirations. Coach Brown and Keyshawn's teammates organized a vigil to honor his memory at the corner of East Jones and North State streets. The community mourned the loss of a young life cut short by senseless violence, and the case highlighted the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities.
The suspects were scheduled to appear in court on September 1, 2015, to face the charges against them. The tragic death of Keyshawn Tyrell Gregory serves as a somber reminder of the need for continued efforts to address and prevent violence in our society.
