FOUR CHARGED AFTER SHOOTING A 12-YEAR-OLD IN THE BACK AT A KINSTON CONVENIENCE STORE
KINSTON, NC — A disturbing act of violence has shaken the Kinston community after a 12-year-old boy was shot in the back while visiting a local convenience store with his mother. Authorities have since made substantial progress, charging four individuals believed to be involved in the shooting that occurred on the night of July 15, 2025.
The incident unfolded at approximately 9:32 p.m. at Sam’s Mini Mart, located on North Queen Street, a familiar spot for many local residents. According to law enforcement reports, the young victim was inside the store accompanied by his mother when sudden gunfire broke out. The boy sustained serious injuries from the shooting and was immediately rushed to ECU Health for emergency medical care. While officials have not released detailed information about his current condition, hospital sources indicate that he remains under close medical supervision.
The shooting has left the community reeling, particularly given the victim’s young age and the seemingly random nature of the attack. Concerned neighbors and community members have expressed shock and outrage over the incident, emphasizing the need for increased safety measures and swift justice for those responsible.
Officials Respond
Kinston Police Chief Marcus Ellington held a press conference the day after the arrests, stating, “This senseless act of violence against a child is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Our department has worked tirelessly to identify those responsible, and we will continue to do everything in our power to protect our community, especially our children. We urge parents and residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.”
Chief Ellington also underscored that the police department will increase patrols around local businesses, especially convenience stores, to deter similar incidents in the future.
Community Reactions
Local resident and mother of two, Cynthia James, shared her fears, “It’s scary to think that a child can be caught in the middle of such violence while just trying to buy something with their parent. We need safer neighborhoods and more support for families.”
The community gathered at a vigil held near Sam’s Mini Mart two days after the shooting. Attendees lit candles and held signs calling for peace and justice. Pastor Samuel Greer, who spoke at the vigil, urged, “Let this be a call for unity, healing, and an end to the violence that is tearing our community apart. Our children deserve to grow up without fear.”
Family Statement
While respecting their privacy, the victim’s family released a brief statement through their attorney: “Our hearts are heavy, and our prayers remain with our son as he fights to recover. We are grateful for the support of our community and ask for continued prayers and respect during this challenging time.”
Local Government Action
Mayor Linda Martinez addressed the situation at a city council meeting, pledging increased resources toward violence prevention. “We are deeply saddened by this incident and remain committed to making Kinston a safer place. We will allocate additional funding to youth programs and increase collaboration with law enforcement to ensure such tragedies do not happen again.”
In addition, the city plans to launch a task force focusing on community safety and youth engagement, with representatives from local government, law enforcement, schools, and social services.
Moving Forward
The four suspects now face serious charges, including attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon, as the judicial process unfolds. Meanwhile, the community continues to rally around the young victim and his family, hoping for his full recovery and a swift resolution to this case.
This tragedy highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in combating gun violence, and the urgent need for comprehensive efforts that combine law enforcement, social support, and community involvement to protect the most vulnerable among us.
Leave a Reply