Crime
16-Year-Old Ashbrook High School Student Fatally Shot in Gastonia, Suspect Arrested
The Gastonia Police Department confirmed the tragic death of a 16-year-old student, Zaquavious Dawkins, who was fatally shot on Saturday evening, January 25, 2025.
Dawkins, a student at Ashbrook High School, succumbed to his injuries after being transported to the hospital.
Officers responded to reports of a shooting on North Chester Street/U.S. 321, just south of Interstate 85, around 6 p.m. Saturday.
According to Jose Jamie, owner of Los Arcos, the incident occurred behind his restaurant. Jamie stated that the area was quickly flooded with law enforcement, and emergency responders transported Dawkins to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
On Tuesday morning, Gastonia police confirmed the arrest of 16-year-old Sean James Curtis Simpson in connection with Dawkins’ killing.
Simpson was apprehended in the Cox Road area and has been charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.
Detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Authorities have not yet disclosed details about the motive or any prior relationship between the victim and the suspect.
Gastonia Police are urging anyone with information regarding this case to come forward. Witnesses or those with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Gastonia Police Department at 704-866-6702. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers. Information leading to an arrest may qualify for a cash reward.
The Gastonia community mourns the loss of a young life and is calling for justice for Zaquavious Dawkins as law enforcement continues its investigation into this tragic incident.
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody following a shooting incident at the Meridian Mall on Friday afternoon.
As a result, the lockdown at the mall has been lifted.
The Meridian Township Police Department issued a public advisory just before 2:00 p.m., urging residents and shoppers to avoid the area near the Dick’s Sporting Goods entrance while officers conducted an active investigation at the scene.
At this time, police have not released specific details regarding the nature of the shooting, including whether anyone was injured or the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the incident and are expected to provide additional information as it becomes available.
The public is asked to remain clear of the immediate area to allow for the ongoing investigation.