The Gastonia community is in mourning after the tragic shooting death of a 16-year-old student, Zaquavious Dawkins, on the evening of January 25, 2025. Dawkins, a sophomore at Ashbrook High School, was fatally shot behind a restaurant on North Chester Street, just south of Interstate 85. After being transported to the hospital, he later succumbed to his injuries.

This incident marks a devastating loss for the local community, where Dawkins was known as a promising young man with a bright future. Law enforcement responded swiftly to the scene, and after several days of investigation, authorities arrested a 16-year-old suspect, Sean James Curtis Simpson, in connection with the murder.

The Incident: What We Know So Far

The shooting occurred around 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in a well-trafficked area of Gastonia. Officers with the Gastonia Police Department responded to reports of gunfire on North Chester Street/U.S. 321, near the intersection with Interstate 85.

Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots before seeing a young man, later identified as Zaquavious Dawkins, lying on the ground behind the Los Arcos restaurant. Jose Jamie, the owner of the restaurant, described the chaos that ensued after the shooting. He stated:

“It all happened so fast. We heard the gunshots, and the next thing we knew, the whole area was swarming with law enforcement. Emergency responders worked quickly to get him to the hospital, but we didn’t know if he was going to make it.”

Dawkins was immediately rushed to the nearby hospital, but despite the best efforts of medical staff, he was pronounced dead from his gunshot wounds shortly after arrival.

The Arrest: Sean James Curtis Simpson

The investigation into the shooting progressed rapidly, and on Tuesday morning, Gastonia police confirmed the arrest of 16-year-old Sean James Curtis Simpson in connection with the fatal shooting. Simpson, who was located in the Cox Road area of Gastonia, was taken into custody without incident.

Simpson has been charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder, though authorities have not yet released detailed information about the events leading up to the shooting or the nature of the relationship between Simpson and Dawkins.

Detectives from the Gastonia Police Department are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including any possible prior altercations or motivations that may have contributed to the violence. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have indicated that they are committed to bringing justice to Zaquavious Dawkins and his family.

A Community in Shock

Zaquavious Dawkins was a student at Ashbrook High School, where he was described as an energetic and friendly young man with a strong desire to succeed. Friends and teachers alike are grieving his untimely death and reflecting on the potential that has been lost.

Ashley Mitchell, a teacher at Ashbrook High School, remembered Zaquavious as a student who stood out not only for his academic abilities but also for his character:

“Zaquavious was always willing to help his classmates. He had so much potential ahead of him. It’s heartbreaking to think that we’ve lost someone like him so young.”

His death has left a profound impact on his peers, his family, and the broader Gastonia community. Community leaders and friends of the Dawkins family have expressed their shock and sorrow over the senseless violence that claimed the life of such a promising young man.

The Impact on the Gastonia Community

Gastonia, a city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community, has been rocked by the shooting. In the days following the incident, local leaders have come together to offer their condolences and show support for the Dawkins family. Church leaders and community activists have also expressed their concerns about the rise in violence among young people, particularly gun violence, and have called for stronger efforts to address the root causes of such tragic events.

City Councilmember Rachel Foster shared her thoughts on the violence that continues to plague the city:

“We need to focus on addressing the underlying causes of violence in our communities. It’s time for all of us to come together and make sure this tragedy doesn’t become just another statistic.”

The loss of Zaquavious Dawkins has highlighted the urgency of addressing youth violence and improving the safety of neighborhoods throughout Gastonia. Many have begun advocating for more after-school programs, youth mentorship opportunities, and increased support for families in crisis.

The Investigation: What We Don’t Know

While the arrest of Sean James Curtis Simpson brings a degree of resolution to the case, many questions remain unanswered. Law enforcement officials have not yet disclosed the exact motive behind the shooting, and it is unclear whether there was any prior relationship between Dawkins and Simpson.

Gastonia Police Department detectives are still working to uncover the full details of the events that led up to the tragic shooting. Authorities are piecing together witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence to determine what happened that fateful evening.

Captain Brian Walters of the Gastonia Police Department spoke to the ongoing investigation:

“We know that the arrest is just one part of the puzzle. Our detectives are committed to gathering every bit of information to ensure that justice is served for Zaquavious. This is an ongoing investigation, and we’ll continue to pursue every lead.”

At this time, police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has information regarding the incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and the Gastonia Police Department is offering a reward for information that leads to additional arrests or details that could aid in the investigation.

Looking for Justice

Zaquavious Dawkins’ family is seeking justice for the loss of their son, brother, and friend. The community, too, is hoping that justice will prevail, and that Simpson will be held accountable for his actions.

Zaquavious’s mother, Tracy Dawkins, spoke publicly after the arrest of Sean Simpson:

“No parent should have to bury their child. I want justice for Zaquavious, and I want this violence to stop. Our family is broken, and we need answers.”

The arrest of Simpson has brought a sense of relief to some, but for the Dawkins family, the pain of losing a beloved son and brother remains fresh and unbearable. The family is now focused on ensuring that Zaquavious’s memory lives on and that no other family has to endure such a tragedy.

The Path Forward: Gastonia’s Call to Action

In the wake of this senseless act of violence, the community of Gastonia is coming together to call for an end to youth violence and gun-related incidents. Many are advocating for stronger gun control measures and more community-based intervention programs that can help deter young people from resorting to violence.

Community leaders and activists are also pushing for more mental health resources for young people and families, hoping to prevent similar tragedies in the future. “We have to invest in our youth, our families, and our communities,” said activist and community leader James Henry. “Violence is a symptom of deeper issues, and it’s time we started addressing those issues before they turn into another tragedy.”

As the investigation continues and more details emerge, the Gastonia community remains united in grief but also determined to prevent further violence. The tragic loss of Zaquavious Dawkins has sparked renewed calls for action, and many are hoping this heartbreaking event will serve as a catalyst for change.

Conclusion

Zaquavious Dawkins’ tragic death has left a lasting impact on the Gastonia community, which is reeling from the loss of a young life taken too soon. With the arrest of Sean James Curtis Simpson, the case has taken a significant step forward, but questions about the motive and the chain of events that led to the shooting remain. As law enforcement continues its investigation, the community and family members continue to mourn the loss of Zaquavious and seek justice for his untimely death.