On June 4, 2024, at approximately 1:28 a.m., the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of gunfire at the USA Car Wash located at 3110 Deaver Circle in Hope Mills, North Carolina. Upon arrival, deputies discovered 21-year-old Lamarvion Tremayne Aviticus McKinnon, a resident of Fayetteville and a veteran of Fort Liberty, unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the ensuing investigation, authorities identified 20-year-old Malik Lamont Jenkins-Leavell as a suspect. On September 16, 2024, Jenkins-Leavell was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with McKinnon's death. He was processed at the Cumberland County Detention Center and held without bond, with a preliminary court appearance scheduled for the following day.
Prior to Jenkins-Leavell's arrest, the Sheriff's Office sought two individuals for questioning: 24-year-old Keymonte Raquan Johnson and 22-year-old Jaheem Murchison, both from Fayetteville. Their potential involvement or knowledge regarding the case was under investigation, though no charges against them were immediately announced.
McKinnon's mother, Kisal Gilchrist, recounted that her son was last seen leaving a 7-Eleven on Ramsey Street following an argument, shortly before the fatal shooting. She described the harrowing experience of arriving at the crime scene and discovering her son's fate. Gilchrist also revealed that McKinnon had recently retired from the Army and was anticipating the birth of his child in July.
The tragic death of Lamarvion McKinnon has deeply affected his family and the local community, prompting discussions about safety and the well-being of veterans transitioning to civilian life. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, urging anyone with additional information to come forward to aid in the pursuit of justice.
