Update: Kinston Police Department investigating shooting involving juvenile victim
Shooting Update
On July 15, 2025, at approximately 9:32 p.m., the Kinston Police Department responded to a report of a 12-year-old male who was shot while at Sam’s Mini Mart (1419 N. Queen Street). The victim was at the store with his mother at the time of the incident.
KPD investigators worked diligently and quickly identified a suspect vehicle and several suspects:
James Roberson Jr., 23, of Kinston, NC
Xavier Wilson, 21, of Kinston, NC
Dontreo Moore, 24, of Kinston, NC
A 50-mile BOLO was immediately issued to surrounding law enforcement agencies. On July 16, 2025, at 12:36 a.m., Craven County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle, which was occupied by the driver, Jennifer Wilson (38, of Lenoir County), and the three suspects. Deputies also recovered three handguns during the stop. Kinston Police officers responded to Craven County and transported all occupants back to Kinston for further investigation.
At approximately 5:15 a.m., KPD investigators executed a search warrant at Jennifer Wilson’s residence on Neuse Road, with assistance from the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office. During the search, additional evidence related to the shooting was recovered, including a 7.62 caliber rifle.
As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were charged:
James Roberson Jr., Xavier Wilson, and Dontreo Moore:
Attempted Murder (3 counts)
Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill Inflicting Serious Injury
Discharge a Weapon into Occupied Property Causing Serious Bodily Injury
Discharge a Weapon into an Occupied Vehicle (2 counts)
Felony Conspiracy
Jennifer Wilson:
Felony Accessory After the Fact
The 12-year-old victim was transported to ECU Health for treatment of life-altering injuries and remains hospitalized receiving care until he is able to be released.
Chief Keith Goyette offered the following statement:
"This was a tragic and senseless act of violence that has forever impacted a young child and his family. Our officers and investigators have worked tirelessly to ensure those responsible are swiftly brought to justice. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victim, his mother, and all those affected as he continues his long road to recovery. The Kinston Police Department stands with this family during this incredibly difficult time."
The Kinston Police Department is actively investigating a shooting that occurred near the intersection of Queen Street and Daniels Street.
Officers responded to the scene and located a 12-year-old male victim at a nearby residence who had sustained a gunshot wound to the back. The victim was transported to ECU Health for medical treatment. His condition is currently unknown.
The investigation is ongoing and we will provide updates when possible.
The Kinston Police Department urges anyone with information related to this incident to contact Kinston-Lenoir County Crime Stoppers at 252-523-4444 or the KPD Tip Line at 252-939-4020. All tips can be submitted anonymously.
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