In America, North Carolina, a 16-year-old Sean Simpson has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder for the alleged shooting of his peer, Zaquavious “Tank” Dawkins, also 16.

The incident occurred on January 26, 2025, when Dawkins was reportedly on his way to a store to purchase items for his disabled mother. Witnesses claim that Simpson fired from a vehicle, fatally wounding Dawkins.

During his court appearance, Simpson became visibly emotional upon learning he would be tried as an adult. He was denied bail and appointed a capital defender. As officers escorted him out, he was heard exclaiming, “I love you, Mama!”

This case is among the first to be prosecuted under North Carolina’s revised “Raise the Age” law, effective December 1, 2024, which permits 16 and 17-year-olds to be tried as adults for serious felonies, including murder.

The community mourns the loss of Dawkins, described by family members as a “sweet” and “kind” individual. His aunt, Denise Wilson, expressed the family’s heartbreak over his untimely death.

Simpson’s next court date has not been announced, and the case continues to unfold as both families and the community grapple with the tragedy.