On April 18, 2024, 12-year-old Za’Dok Amori Clark tragically lost his life due to an accidental shooting at his home on Dean Drive in Kinston, North Carolina. The incident occurred just before 7 p.m. while Za’Dok and his 22-year-old sibling were engaged in target practice in their backyard. According to the Lenoir County Sheriff's Office, the older sibling was loading a .22-caliber rifle without a trigger guard when their finger inadvertently struck the trigger, discharging the firearm and
fatally wounding Za’Dok in the chest.
Emergency medical personnel and sheriff's deputies responded promptly to the scene. Despite their efforts, Za’Dok succumbed to his injuries. An autopsy confirmed that the shooting was accidental, aligning with the initial findings of the investigation. The Lenoir County Department of Social Services and the District Attorney's office were consulted during the investigation, which concluded that the tragic event was an unfortunate accident.
In the wake of this tragedy, Lenoir County Public Schools provided additional counseling and support services at Contentnea-Savannah K-8 School, where Za’Dok was a student, to assist grieving students and staff. The community expressed its condolences and support for the Clark family during this difficult time. A GoFundMe campaign was organized by James Rufus on behalf of Za’Dok's mother, Lutesha Clark, to help cover funeral expenses and other needs.
Za’Dok's Celebration of Life was held on April 27, 2024, at the United American Free Will Tabernacle, followed by burial at Hickory Grove Church Cemetery. The family received visitors on April 26 at R. Swinson Funeral Services Chapel. The community's outpouring of support highlighted the impact of Za’Dok's life and the collective mourning of his untimely passing.
This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of firearm safety, particularly in households with children. Ensuring that firearms are equipped with proper safety features, such as trigger guards, and that all individuals handling them are adequately trained, is essential to prevent such heartbreaking accidents in the future.
