Zaquavious Lerrell Dawkins, a 16-year-old African American male born November 27, 2008, was fatally shot outside the Los Arcos restaurant on North Chester Street in Gastonia, North Carolina, on January 26, 2025. His obituary and community notices describe him as outgoing and compassionate, a young man who brought joy to those around him.

Authorities have confirmed the shooting is under investigation and that a Gaston County teenager has been charged in connection with the death; court appearance followed the filing, but investigators have not released the suspect’s name or an official motive. Funeral services were held at the Ervin Community Center in Gastonia, with interment at Adams Chapel AME Zion Church Cemetery in Kings Mountain.

What did Zaquavious mean to people who knew him, and does anyone have information that could help investigators bring more answers to his family?