Laurinburg, NC – A devastating incident on the evening of August 22, 2024, has claimed the life of 18-year-old Zahquan Thyzee Stewart and left two younger boys critically injured. The tragedy occurred around 8:00 p.m. at the intersection of Deluca and Berry Streets, where gunshots were reported, leading to a chaotic and heartbreaking scene.
When officers from the Laurinburg Police Department arrived, they discovered a 14-year-old boy lying beside the road, confused and unsure if he had been shot. Nearby, in the underbrush, they found Zahquan Thyzee Stewart deceased next to a crashed all-terrain vehicle (ATV), which had struck a tree. A third victim, a 13-year-old boy, was found with a gunshot wound and was quickly taken to Scotland Memorial Hospital. He was later airlifted to another facility due to his critical condition.
The investigation has revealed that the three boys were riding the ATV together when they passed two individuals who opened fire on them. In the chaos, Stewart lost control of the ATV, leading to the fatal crash. The 14-year-old boy was also airlifted from the scene and remains in critical condition.
The Laurinburg community has been left in shock by this tragic event. Many have taken to social media to express their grief and call for an end to such violence.
Tonya Brown shared on Facebook, "Prayers and love to the victims! Enough is enough! This is beyond ridiculous! Breaks my heart."
Heidi Hartfield commented, "Children riding an ATV, not out here doing drugs or getting into further trouble. Blessings & prayers to their families."
Julia Wallace echoed the sentiments of many, saying, "This breaks my heart. Those poor babies… And their families. How can some people be so heartless?"
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Laurinburg Police Department. The community is mourning the loss of a young life and hoping for the swift recovery of the injured boys.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the violence that continues to plague communities and the urgent need for collective efforts to prevent such tragedies in the future.