On September 13, 2024, 18-year-old Burlie Dawson Locklear, known to friends and family as "Dawson," was tragically killed while working at a Waffle House in Laurinburg, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 12:42 a.m. when a customer, later identified as 38-year-old Florwer Carlin Lizano, became increasingly agitated and verbally abusive toward the staff as his food was being prepared.
After receiving his order, Lizano exited the restaurant, turned back, and fired two shots into the establishment, fatally striking Locklear. Locklear was transported to Scotland Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Locklear had recently graduated from Hoke County High School and was known for his infectious smile and uplifting spirit. He was a beloved member of his community, with aspirations of following in his family's footsteps by pursuing a career in electrical work. His untimely death has left family, friends, and the local community in deep mourning.
Following the shooting, the Laurinburg Police Department launched an investigation and identified Lizano as the primary suspect. An arrest warrant was issued, charging him with first-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and discharging a firearm into an occupied building. Lizano, also known by the aliases "Carlos" or "Chulo," is described as a light-skinned Black male with long dreadlocks, facial hair, approximately 5'8" to 5'10" in height, and weighing between 140 to 180 pounds. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a dark blue pullover hoodie, blue jeans, and white shoes, and was seen driving a dark gray Chevrolet, possibly a 2014 model.
Lizano has a prior criminal record, including a 2017 conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, for which he served a four-year federal prison sentence followed by supervised release. Authorities have noted that he frequents areas in Laurinburg, Dillon, South Carolina, and Florida. As of the latest reports, Lizano remains at large, and law enforcement agencies are actively seeking information regarding his whereabouts. The Laurinburg Police Department has urged anyone with information to come forward to aid in apprehending the suspect and bringing justice for Locklear and his grieving family.
