On January 3, 2024, 19-year-old Kalib Mekhi Bostick of Jacksonville, North Carolina, tragically lost his life in a shooting incident outside the 53 Mini Mart and Tobacco store located at 3458 Burgaw Highway. The incident, which occurred around 5:19 p.m., also claimed the life of 18-year-old Christian Peterson and left a third individual injured. Upon arrival, deputies found one victim deceased in the parking lot and another inside a vehicle.
The third victim was transported to Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune and was listed in stable condition.
Investigations by the Onslow County Sheriff's Office revealed that the fatal encounter stemmed from a drug deal that escalated into a robbery. Multiple firearms were recovered at the scene, including one reported stolen. Authorities arrested 20-year-old Wali Shamiere Johnson of Hubert, charging him with murder, robbery with firearms, and conspiracy to commit robbery. Johnson was held without bond at the Onslow County Detention Center, with his initial court appearance scheduled shortly thereafter.
Subsequently, a 17-year-old male suspect was also apprehended and faced similar charges, including murder, robbery with a firearm, and conspiracy to commit robbery. The juvenile was placed in secured custody. Sheriff Chris Thomas indicated that the incident appeared isolated, with no ongoing threat to the public, and noted that witnesses were cooperating with the investigation. He also mentioned the possibility of additional arrests and charges as the investigation continued.
In the wake of this tragedy, funeral services for Kalib Bostick were organized by Adams Funeral Services. A public viewing was held on January 16, 2024, followed by a celebration of life on January 17 at St. Mary's Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia. Bostick was laid to rest at Woodville Cemetery.
The deaths of Bostick and Peterson underscore the dangers associated with illicit activities and have prompted local authorities to emphasize the importance of community awareness and vigilance. Sheriff Thomas urged residents to report suspicious activities, highlighting the role of public cooperation in preventing such tragedies.
