On the evening of March 16, 2024, in Chadbourn, North Carolina, 7-year-old Antonio Jamal Maultsby Jr. was tragically killed when gunfire erupted outside his grandmother's mobile home on Braswell Road. Antonio was inside the residence when bullets penetrated the walls, fatally striking him. His grandmother, Martha Davis, was sitting beside him at the time of the shooting.
She expressed her profound grief and confusion, stating, "I don't know why someone would want to do this, but they did do it and I don't know why."
In the immediate aftermath, the Columbus County Sheriff's Office launched an intensive investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for this senseless act. Despite their efforts, no arrests have been made to date. Sheriff Bill Rogers emphasized the importance of community cooperation, noting that the family and others present at the scene have been reluctant to share information. He stated, "We want justice and we are trying to do our best to get it, but the family has to help us and that's the roadblock we're in."
To encourage leads, a reward for information leading to an arrest has been established, totaling $4,400. The sheriff's office remains steadfast in its commitment to solving this case, with Sheriff Rogers asserting, "I'm hoping and praying, this will not be an unsolved case. It's not going to be a cold case file. We're going to solve this case."
Antonio's death has left a deep void in the Chadbourn community. A student at Chadbourn Elementary, he was known for his bright spirit and was cherished by his family and peers. In the wake of the tragedy, vigils have been held to honor his memory and to call for an end to violence in the area. Community members have come together, not only to mourn but also to support the family through fundraising efforts for funeral expenses.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, stressing that even the smallest detail could be pivotal in bringing justice for Antonio. The Columbus County Sheriff's Office can be contacted at (910) 642-6551. The community's cooperation is essential in ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
