ROBESON COUNTY, NC – A 16-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of 21-year-old Jawuan Thomas Baker in the Red Springs community, authorities confirmed. The suspect was taken into custody on Tuesday afternoon in Hope Mills, a neighboring town in Cumberland County.
According to Red Springs Police Chief Sarah Purcell, the arrest was made with assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service. The juvenile is currently being held at a juvenile detention center as the legal process moves forward. Due to his age, officials have not released his name or other identifying details.
The fatal shooting occurred in October along the 100 block of Grantham Street. Officers responding to the scene found Baker suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the location. Investigators worked for months to gather evidence and identify a suspect before making the arrest.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the possible motive behind the shooting. It remains unclear whether the suspect and the victim knew each other or if the shooting was random. Law enforcement officials continue to gather information and encourage anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.
The suspect is expected to make his first court appearance in Robeson County juvenile court on Wednesday. Because he is a minor, details of the proceedings will likely remain confidential. Depending on the severity of the charges, prosecutors could consider seeking to charge him as an adult.
The tragic loss of Baker has deeply impacted the community, prompting concerns about youth violence and crime prevention. Law enforcement officials emphasize their commitment to justice and ensuring that those responsible for violent crimes are held accountable. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the case.