On October 24, 2023, a tragic shooting occurred at the Red Oak Grill and Grocery on Greenville Boulevard in Greenville, North Carolina, resulting in the death of 19-year-old Saquan Ajahdrek Zier Santiago. The incident took place around 7:00 p.m., when shots were fired from a vehicle targeting specific individuals in the store's parking lot. During the chaos, a vehicle crashed into the store. Santiago was found deceased near the parking lot, having succumbed to gunshot wounds.
Three others were injured: 18-year-old Kemari Ruffin, who was inside the store and sustained serious injuries; a 17-year-old who suffered a minor arm injury and was treated on-site; and 18-year-old Itzel Martin, a passerby whose vehicle was struck by a bullet, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries.
The Greenville Police Department swiftly initiated an investigation, leading to the arrest of three individuals. Twenty-five-year-old Trevon Jenkins and 29-year-old Dashaun Payton were each charged with murder, while 18-year-old Xysean Mayfield faced charges of felony accessory after the fact. The arrests were made without incident, with assistance from the State Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team, the Greenville Police Department’s Emergency Response Team, and the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team. Authorities believe the shooting was a targeted attack, though the exact motive remains under investigation.
Santiago, affectionately known as "lil say osama," was born on April 12, 2004, in Greenville. He attended Pitt County Schools and had a passion for sports, playing Little League baseball through the Greenville Recreation Center and football with the Greenville Police Athletic League. Known for his respectful demeanor and warm smile, Santiago cherished spending time with family and friends. His most treasured role was being a father to his son, Royal Jace Santiago, whom he loved deeply and aspired to be the best father possible. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jalissia Garrett and Sadrach Santiago, and leaves behind a loving family, including his son, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous friends who mourn his untimely passing.
The community has been deeply affected by Santiago's death, with many expressing their grief and sharing memories of his positive impact on their lives. A Celebration of Life Service was held on November 4, 2023, at Philippi Disciples of Christ Church in Greenville, followed by burial at Homestead Memorial Gardens Mausoleum. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact the Greenville Police Department.
This tragic event underscores the devastating impact of gun violence on individuals, families, and communities, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such incidents.
