Dorian James Ezell, a 23-year-old Black man from Columbia, South Carolina, died on December 31, 2015. Born August 28, 1992, he was the son of Reverend Ricky Ray Ezell, Sr. and Bernice Gadson Ezell. A Dutch Fork High School graduate, Dorian attended Claflin University and Midlands Technical College and was active at Central Baptist Church from childhood, participating in youth ministries and serving as a youth counselor during the church’s Summer Enrichment Program.

Dorian was known locally as an athlete and musician — he played AAU basketball, piano and drums, and performed rap — and competed at chess and checkers. A homegoing service was held at Central Baptist Church on January 6, 2016, and he was buried in Memorial Gardens of Columbia. An online memorial states he was lost to gun violence, but available searches have not produced news reports, police statements, or records confirming the circumstances, investigation details, or any arrests.

If anyone knew Dorian or has information about what happened on December 31, 2015, please share what you know.