ROWLAND, N.C. — Four teenagers have been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old high school student during a house party in southeastern North Carolina earlier this month, authorities said.
Investigators say Keedon Lewis, 16, was shot and killed around 3 a.m. on March 8 during a party near Rowland, a small town about 110 miles south of Raleigh.
Law enforcement officials have since arrested four suspects — a 15-year-old, two 16-year-olds, and a 17-year-old — in connection with the deadly incident.
All four teens are facing serious charges including first-degree murder, attempted murder, and felony conspiracy, according to authorities.
Deadly Shooting Happened During Late-Night Party
Investigators say the fatal shooting occurred during a gathering that had drawn multiple teenagers to the area.
Authorities have not publicly released details about what led to the violence, but officials confirmed the shooting happened during the early morning hours at the party.
Lewis’ father, Brandon Lewis, told reporters that his son was found in a field near the family’s home.
“They posted my kid on social media,” Lewis said. “They got my kid going around on Snapchat, laying in that field.”
The grieving father also spoke about the devastating impact of gun violence.
“You don’t need a gun. Put the gun down. In fact, be a man,” he said. “The world just crazy right now. It’s something that needs to come to an end.”
Victim Remembered as Kind and Energetic Student
Keedon Lewis was an 11th-grade student at Purnell Swett High School, according to local reports.
Family members and friends say he was known for his humorous personality and positive energy.
Lewis was described in his obituary as someone with a “humorous, enthusiastic and clever personality.”
Those close to him said he loved spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, activities that brought him peace and happiness.
He also enjoyed working on vehicles, riding anything with wheels, and singing along to his favorite music.
Friends and Community Mourning Teen’s Death
Friends who knew Lewis described him as someone who could brighten any room.
One friend, Zachariah Hunt, said Lewis was “an amazing person” who was always making others smile. Another friend, David Fipps, said the loss has left a deep void among those who knew him.
“It’s never going to be the same,” Fipps said.
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Authorities Call Case “Heartbreaking”
Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins reportedly described the incident as “heartbreaking” for the entire community.
Officials say the case has shaken local residents and students, many of whom are still struggling to process the tragedy.
The Public Schools of Robeson County also released a statement expressing condolences to the family.
“Please join us in prayer for the family of Keedon Lewis, a Purnell Swett High School student who passed away recently,” the district said.
School officials added that the community is deeply saddened by the loss and encouraged support for those grieving.
Investigation Continues
Authorities say the investigation into the shooting is ongoing as detectives continue gathering evidence and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the case.
Officials have not released the names of the suspects because they are minors.
The arrests mark a major step in the investigation, but authorities say the legal process is just beginning.
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