Davine Naki Wanya Shells was a 20-year-old man from Newark, New Jersey, remembered by family and friends as brave, outgoing, funny, and devoted to his loved ones. Known by the nickname Poohbop, he grew up in Newark schools and played basketball while building a close circle of friends and relatives who recall his easy smile and energy.

On the late afternoon of June 19, 2021, around 5:30 p.m., a moving gun battle occurred along the 600 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard near Montgomery Street in Newark’s Central Ward. Davine was struck by gunfire and found unresponsive near 671 Martin Luther King Boulevard; he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force took over the investigation. A man in his mid-twenties was later arrested, convicted, and sentenced to 14 years in prison in connection with the shooting.

For Davine’s family, the sentence brought some accountability but could not replace the loss; online memorials emphasize his role as a brother, nephew, and friend. If anyone knew Davine or has information about that afternoon, please share what you can.