On the evening of August 22, 2024, in Laurinburg, North Carolina, 18-year-old Zahquan Thyzee Stewart was fatally shot while riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) with two younger teenagers, aged 13 and 14, along Deluca Street. As they passed by two individuals, the suspects opened fire, striking Stewart and causing the ATV to crash into a tree. Stewart was pronounced dead at the scene, while the 13-year-old sustained a gunshot wound and was transported to a hospital in critical condition.
The 14-year-old was also critically injured, though it remains unclear whether from gunfire or the crash.
In the days following the incident, Laurinburg Police arrested a 16-year-old male suspect, charging him with murder in connection to Stewart's death. Due to his age, the suspect's identity has not been publicly disclosed. The investigation remains active, with authorities seeking additional information to identify any other individuals involved.
Stewart's death has deeply affected the Laurinburg community, prompting discussions about youth violence and safety. A funeral service was held on September 6, 2024, at The Kenneth M. Purcell Memorial Chapel, where family and friends gathered to honor his memory.
Law enforcement continues to urge anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in bringing those responsible to justice and preventing further tragedies.
