On October 19, 2023, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Kinston Police Department officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 400 block of Clay Street in Kinston, North Carolina. Upon arrival, they found two individuals suffering from multiple gunshot wounds: 19-year-old Tabias Williams and 20-year-old Tamir Cobb. Both victims were airlifted to ECU Health Medical Center in critical condition.
The initial investigation indicated that the victims were shot following an altercation, after which the suspect fled the scene. Later that day, authorities obtained warrants for the arrest of 23-year-old Devonte Cantey of Kinston. Cantey was charged with two counts of attempted murder, discharging a weapon into an occupied vehicle, and possession of a firearm by a felon. He was apprehended without incident and placed in the Lenoir County Jail under a secured bond.
Tragically, on October 21, 2023, Tabias Williams succumbed to his injuries. In response, the charges against Cantey were upgraded to first-degree murder. Cobb remained hospitalized in serious condition but was expected to survive.
A funeral service for Williams was held on November 2, 2023, at the Robert Swinson Jr. Memorial Chapel, followed by burial at Southview Cemetery. He is remembered by family and friends for his vibrant personality and the joy he brought to those around him.
This incident has heightened concerns about gun violence in Kinston, prompting community leaders and law enforcement to advocate for increased efforts toward violence prevention and intervention. The Kinston Police Department continues to encourage anyone with information related to the case to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in ensuring public safety.
