On January 28, 2024, at approximately 12:42 p.m., deputies from the Greene County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of gunfire at a residence on Rory Drive in Maury, North Carolina. Upon arrival, they discovered 17-year-old William "Anthony" Devon Williams Jr. suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, Williams was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation, conducted jointly by the Greene County Sheriff's Office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, led to the arrest of 20-year-old Ja'wan Ja'von Dodd of Snow Hill on January 30, 2024. Dodd was charged with an open count of murder and held without bond at the Greene County Detention Center.
Further inquiries resulted in the arrest of 18-year-old Shayquan Williams of Hookerton on February 8, 2024. Authorities indicated that robbery was the suspected motive behind the shooting. Both suspects were detained without bond as the investigation continued.
Anthony Williams Jr., born on February 27, 2006, was a resident of Walstonburg and a student at Greene Central High School. He was remembered for his kind heart and creativity, particularly in crafting bead bracelets. A celebration of his life was held on February 10, 2024, at Moye's Chapel Free Will Baptist Church in Farmville, followed by interment at St. Delight Cemetery in Walstonburg.
The tragic loss of Anthony deeply affected the Greene County community. In his memory, a candlelight vigil and balloon release were organized, drawing family, friends, and community members to honor his life and advocate for an end to youth violence.
As the legal proceedings against the accused individuals progressed, the community remained united in seeking justice for Anthony, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of violence and providing support for the youth to prevent such tragedies in the future.
