Cassidy Johnson, 15, Fatally Shot in Durham; 13-Year-Old Brother Injured in Separate Incident Days Later919-560-4440 ext. 29238
Cassidy Johnson, 15, Fatally Shot in Durham; 13-Year-Old Brother Injured in Separate Incident Days Later
On the evening of May 9, 2025, a tragic shooting in Durham, North Carolina, claimed the life of 15-year-old Cassidy Johnson and left his 13-year-old brother hospitalized with gunshot wounds. The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. in the 1200 block of Dayton Street, near Wabash and Lawson Streets, in the McDougald Terrace neighborhood. Durham police responded to reports of a shooting and found both victims with gunshot injuries. Cassidy was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead, while his younger brother was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.(WRAL.com, ABC11 Raleigh-Durham)
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Durham community, prompting calls for justice and increased efforts to combat gun violence. Durham Mayor Leo Williams expressed his condolences, stating, “We had a very tragic loss of life yesterday in our great city. I do want to remember that child that is no longer with us. He is someone’s brother, someone’s son. He was something to someone.” The mayor emphasized the need for community action, saying, “We shouldn’t just be talking about it because it happens in one area, we should all be very concerned because this is our community.” (ABC11 Raleigh-Durham)
The Durham Police Department is actively investigating the incident. Authorities have not released further details about potential suspects or motives. Anyone with information is urged to contact Investigator J. Sokal at 919-560-4440 ext. 29238 or CrimeStoppers at 919-683-1200. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online at Durham CrimeStoppers.(ABC11 Raleigh-Durham, WRAL.com)
This incident adds to a growing concern over gun violence in Durham. In recent months, several shootings have occurred in the city, including the deaths of other teenagers. Community leaders and residents are calling for increased safety measures and community engagement to address the root causes of gun violence.(CBS 17)
The Durham Police Department has not yet released the names of the victims involved in the May 9 shooting. However, community members have identified the teenage victim as Cassidy Johnson. His mother, Latoya Edwards, confirmed his identity and expressed her grief, stating, “My baby is gone. I don’t even know what to say, I’m just confused right now, I’m really confused.” She also highlighted the prevalence of gun violence in the community, saying, “There’s just too much gun violence going on around here. People putting guns in the wrong people’s hands, people thinking they are play toys when they are not.” Edwards emphasized the pain of losing her son, stating, “I shouldn’t have to bury my son.” (ABC11 Raleigh-Durham)
The shooting has sparked a renewed conversation about public safety and the need for community-driven solutions to prevent further tragedies. Durham residents are encouraged to participate in local meetings and initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence and supporting affected families.
As the investigation continues, the Durham community remains united in its grief and determination to seek justice for Cassidy Johnson and his family. The hope is that through collective action and vigilance, such senseless acts of violence can be prevented in the future.(ABC11 Raleigh-Durham)
For more information or to report tips, please contact the Durham Police Department or CrimeStoppers. Your assistance can help bring closure to this heartbreaking incident and contribute to a safer community for all.(CBS 17)
