Dedric Page Arrested and Charged with First-Degree Murder in Fatal Shooting of 7-Year-Old Quazariya Williams; Maxton, NC Incident Stems from Ongoing Dispute Between Page and Child’s Mother
In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has shaken the small town of Maxton, North Carolina, 31-year-old Dedric Page has been arrested and formally charged with the first-degree murder of 7-year-old Quazariya G. Williams. The shooting, which took place on the afternoon of Sunday, November 10, 2024, reportedly stemmed from a personal dispute between Page and Quazariya’s mother, leaving the community grieving the untimely loss of an innocent child.
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to reports of gunfire shortly after 3:30 p.m. on Sunday in a residential area near Mill Street in Maxton. According to preliminary reports, Page allegedly targeted a vehicle that was occupied by five individuals, including Quazariya. The young girl, sitting in the back seat, suffered gunshot wounds when Page reportedly opened fire on the vehicle. She was immediately rushed to Scotland Memorial Hospital in Laurinburg, where, despite urgent medical attention, she tragically succumbed to her injuries. Her death marks yet another harrowing instance of gun violence impacting young lives, reigniting community conversations around safety, responsibility, and accountability.
Background of the Incident: An Escalating Dispute
The Robeson County authorities have indicated that the shooting incident is believed to have stemmed from an ongoing personal dispute between Page and Quazariya’s mother, though specific details of their relationship or the nature of their altercation have not been released publicly. The Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that Page, who has a prior criminal record, allegedly pursued and targeted the car that Quazariya and her family were traveling in.
Investigators report that Page approached the vehicle with a firearm, then allegedly discharged several rounds toward the car. Witnesses in the area reported hearing multiple shots, followed by screams. Initial findings suggest that Quazariya was struck by at least one bullet as the shots penetrated the vehicle’s rear windows. The authorities have since collected shell casings from the crime scene and have reportedly located and impounded Page’s vehicle for forensic examination.
Immediate Response and Community Reaction
Emergency responders arrived within minutes of the incident, and the wounded girl was transported to the hospital under life-threatening circumstances. Despite doctors’ best efforts to save her, Quazariya was pronounced dead at the hospital later that afternoon. Her family and the entire Maxton community have been left shattered by the sudden and tragic loss of the bright young girl who, according to family members, was known for her joyful spirit and love for her family.
Quazariya was a student at a local elementary school, and her death has sent shockwaves through her school community. Her teachers and classmates are heartbroken, with school officials offering counseling services for students and staff struggling to process the incident. A community vigil is being planned by local leaders to honor her memory and call for greater efforts to address the causes of violent incidents.
Residents in Maxton, a small town with a close-knit community, expressed disbelief and outrage over the tragedy. The incident has led to renewed calls for action against gun violence and increased community safety measures. “This shouldn’t be happening, especially not to our children,” stated community advocate Marie Thomas. “We need to find ways to address the violence that’s tearing families apart.”
Law Enforcement Response and Charges
Shortly after the shooting, local law enforcement initiated a manhunt for Page, who was quickly located and taken into custody without further incident. The arrest came as a relief to many in the community who were concerned about the possibility of additional violent altercations. Page is currently being held at the Robeson County Detention Center without bond, facing multiple charges including first-degree murder, discharging a weapon into occupied property, and possession of a firearm by a felon.
Sheriff Burnis Wilkins of the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office released a statement condemning the senseless act of violence. “This is a tragic and unacceptable loss of life,” he said. “Our department is committed to ensuring that justice is served and that the person responsible for this horrific act is held accountable. The safety of our citizens is our top priority, and we are determined to pursue every possible avenue to make sure our streets are safe.”
Authorities are investigating Page’s background and have noted his previous criminal record, which includes prior convictions related to weapons offenses. North Carolina law prohibits felons from possessing firearms, and the discovery of a weapon in Page’s possession at the time of the incident has added a severe felony charge to his list of offenses. Local prosecutors are expected to argue for maximum penalties due to the heinous nature of the crime, particularly given the young age of the victim.
Community Support and Calls for Justice
In the wake of Quazariya’s death, several community members and organizations have rallied to support her family. A memorial fund has been established to assist her family with funeral expenses, while local churches and advocacy groups have organized gatherings to provide a space for collective grieving and healing. The tragedy has also brought renewed attention to the issue of gun violence in North Carolina, with activists calling for stricter measures to prevent similar incidents.
A candlelight vigil is planned at Quazariya’s elementary school, where classmates, teachers, and community members will gather to celebrate her life and demand justice. The local school district released a statement offering condolences to the Williams family and affirming their commitment to supporting students affected by the incident. The district has made counseling resources available for students and staff and is working closely with local mental health organizations to provide ongoing support for those impacted by the tragedy.
“We are all devastated by the loss of such a bright young soul,” said Superintendent Dr. Ellen Wilson. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Quazariya’s family, and we are here to offer whatever support they need. It’s difficult to process this kind of loss, especially when it affects our youngest and most vulnerable.”
Public Response and National Attention
The story of Quazariya’s tragic death has drawn national attention, with several news outlets covering the story as part of the broader discussion around gun violence in America. Public figures, including local politicians and anti-gun violence advocates, have called for policy reforms aimed at preventing similar tragedies from happening in the future. State Representative Gloria Allen issued a statement emphasizing the need for comprehensive gun reform, particularly measures targeting illegal firearm possession.
“This heartbreaking incident reminds us that we have a long way to go in addressing the epidemic of gun violence in our communities,” said Allen. “We need policies that protect our children and hold those who commit acts of violence accountable. Quazariya’s death is an unimaginable loss, and we owe it to her memory to work toward real solutions.”
The North Carolina chapter of the advocacy group Moms Demand Action has also joined calls for reform, organizing a rally in Raleigh to honor Quazariya’s life and demand stricter gun control measures. “We must take action to ensure that our children can live and grow up in safe environments,” said organization spokesperson Carol Jenkins. “No family should have to suffer the pain that Quazariya’s family is now enduring.”
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are seeking additional information from the community regarding the events leading up to the shooting. Detectives are following up on witness accounts and are urging anyone with information to come forward. “If you know something, please say something,” emphasized Sheriff Wilkins. “Even the smallest detail can help bring closure and justice for Quazariya’s family.”
The case has been referred to the Robeson County District Attorney’s Office, which will oversee the prosecution of Page. District Attorney Matthew Bright has pledged to work tirelessly to secure a conviction, stating, “This is an egregious act that took the life of an innocent child. We will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served for Quazariya and her family.”
Remembering Quazariya G. Williams
Quazariya G. Williams is remembered as a kind and joyful child who brought happiness to those around her. Friends and family describe her as a bright light who loved her family, friends, and teachers. The local community is committed to keeping her memory alive, with several tributes planned to honor her life.
Quazariya’s funeral service will be held at Maxton’s First Baptist Church, where her family will say their final goodbyes. Community members, local leaders, and those affected by her loss are expected to attend the service in solidarity with her family.
