On September 20, 2024, at approximately 8:50 p.m., Kinston Police Department officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 300 block of South McDaniels Street in Kinston, North Carolina. Upon arrival, they discovered two individuals with gunshot wounds: 25-year-old Korie Williams and 18-year-old Yameek Coward. Both victims were transported to UNC Lenoir Health Care, where Williams was pronounced deceased en route, and Coward was later transferred to ECU Health Medical Center for further
treatment.
In the ensuing investigation, detectives identified 21-year-old Bryson Bradley of Lenoir County as a suspect. On September 23, 2024, warrants were issued charging Bradley with murder and attempted murder in connection with the shooting. Authorities have been actively seeking Bradley's whereabouts, urging anyone with information to come forward.
Subsequently, on October 17, 2024, officers arrested 18-year-old Savannah Locklear of Kinston at a convenience store on East Highland Avenue. Locklear was charged with murder, three counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of discharging a weapon into occupied property, and three counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill. She was taken into custody without incident and held at the Lenoir County Jail.
The Kinston Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, with additional arrests anticipated. They have emphasized the importance of community assistance in providing information that could lead to the apprehension of remaining suspects and the resolution of the case.
Korie Williams, born on December 23, 1998, was a resident of Kinston. He is remembered by family and friends for his vibrant personality and the joy he brought to those around him. A celebration of his life was held on September 29, 2024, at Living Proof Ministries (St. Mark Church), followed by burial at Southview Cemetery.
This tragic incident has heightened concerns about gun violence in Kinston, prompting community leaders and law enforcement to advocate for increased efforts toward violence prevention and intervention. The Kinston Police Department continues to encourage anyone with information related to the case to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in ensuring public safety.
