The Robeson County community is in mourning following the death of 16-year-old Keedon Lewis, a Lumberton teen remembered by those who knew him as someone whose laughter and easygoing nature could illuminate any room.
Described by loved ones as adventurous and full of life, he had a deep passion for hunting, fishing, and spending countless hours restoring his beloved 1976 Ford pickup. A student at Purnell Swett High School and a proud member of the Lumbee Tribe, Keedon was known for his charisma and the genuine joy he brought to everyone around him.
In the early hours of Sunday, March 8, Keedon was at a gathering with other teenagers near the intersection of Josie Lane and Kitchen Street Road, just outside Rowland in Robeson County. According to investigators, the gathering included people he considered friends. However, around 3 a.m., the situation turned deadly. Deputies responding to the scene discovered Keedon lying in a field near the party location, having suffered fatal gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities later revealed that multiple teenagers were involved in the shooting. Four suspects—a 15-year-old, two 16-year-olds, and a 17-year-old, all from Red Springs—were arrested and charged with first-degree murder, felony conspiracy, and attempted murder. All four are being held at the Cumberland Regional Juvenile Detention Center without bond. Investigators confirmed that the shooting occurred in the field near the party site, where numerous teens were present.
Keedon’s father, Brandon Lewis, has spoken publicly about the profound anguish surrounding his son’s death, stating that many of the teens present knew what was happening and that the attack was planned. He said his son was shot after turning his back, and that photos and videos of Keedon lying in the field were posted on social media in the aftermath. His grief reflects the deep sense of betrayal felt by the family, who believe Keedon was set up by people he trusted.
The rural intersection where Keedon was killed became the center of an extensive investigation as deputies collected evidence and interviewed witnesses. The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the case involved a large number of teens, many of whom were present during the shooting and may have information critical to the investigation. Sheriff Burnis Wilkins stated, “Even the smallest detail could be important in helping us understand exactly what happened and in bringing justice and closure to this family”.
As the community continues to mourn, tributes to Keedon highlight his bright personality, his love for the outdoors, and the way he made others feel valued. Friends recalled how he was always the one to get everyone going home, to suggest going fishing, or to tinker with his truck. His death has left a deep void in the lives of his family, friends, and classmates. The investigation remains active, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-671-3100 as they work to secure justice for a young life taken far too soon.
