- North Carolina Teenager Charged as Adult for Murder Breaks Down in Court.
- Sean Simpson is accused of killing Zaquavious Dawkins while Dawkins was shopping for his disabled mother.
- Simpson will be tried as an adult due to North Carolina’s updated “Raise the Age” law.
- The case emphasizes the lasting impact of youth violence on local communities.
A recent court appearance in Gaston County, North Carolina, was filled with emotion as 16-year-old Sean Simpson broke down in tears after being charged as an adult with first-degree murder.
Simpson is accused of shooting and killing 16-year-old Zaquavious Dawkins on January 26, 2025, in Gastonia. Dawkins was reportedly on his way to a store to buy items for his disabled mother when the tragic incident occurred.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(739x354:741x356)/sean-simpson-gaston-county-courthouse-022525-274bef6e3842460f83f937eb2608a38f.jpg)
In court, Simpson’s emotional outburst included shouting “I love you, Mama” as officers led him away. He was visibly shaken as the judge read his charges and appointed him a capital defender.
🚨 16-year-old Sean Simpson broke down in tears in court after being charged as an adult for murder under North Carolina’s new law that allows 16- and 17-year-olds to face adult consequences for serious felonies. The judge denied him bail, emphasizing accountability.
This all… pic.twitter.com/5CeX8JRxuB
— The Super Plug (@trapxLA) February 25, 2025
Simpson is currently being held without bail and will be tried as an adult due to a change in North Carolina’s “Raise the Age” law, which took effect on December 1, 2024. This law permits 16 and 17-year-olds to be tried as adults for serious felonies, including murder.
The case underscores the impact of youth violence on communities. Dawkins’ family described him as kind and thoughtful, and his death has created a significant void.
The incident also involved a previous altercation between Simpson and Dawkins at Ashbrook High School, which had seemingly been resolved. However, the circumstances leading up to the shooting indicate that tensions may have lingered.
Also Read: Young Thug Announces First Live Show After Prison Release
Last Updated on February 26, 2025 by 247 News Around The World
