Multiple sources have confirmed that Antonio Jamal Maultsby Jr. was the child killed on Braswell Road Saturday.
The boy’s obituary said he would have turned eight years old March 29.
At least six other people, including a toddler, were in the home when young Antonio was shot to death Saturday night. The report from Columbus County Sheriff’s Office said the boy died at Columbus Regional. The incident was reported just before 9 p.m. at 2089 Braswell Road, Chadbourn.
Columbus County Sheriff Bill Rogers said several people were standing in the yard of the homed when an unknown shooter in a vehicle opened fire. Multiple shots were reportedly fired, with several rounds entering the home.
Young Antonio sustained two gunshot wounds, Rogers said. EMS transported the child to Columbus Regional, where he was pronounced dead. The shooting was reported just before 8 p.m. in the 2000 block of Braswell Road.
The report said that in addition to the victim, four adults ranging from 38 to 61 years of age were in the home, with a three year old. No other injuries were reported.
A spokesperson for the sheriff’s office said no further information would be made public. The CCSO refused to confirm the name of the victim.
The child’s death ignited outrage in the community and social media. Chadbourn-area businessman Ricky Soles offered a $500 reward to anyone with information on the killer.
“A parent shouldn’t have to bury their child,” Soles posted on Facebook. “I am offering $500 cash to the person that turns the coward or cowards in that did this. An arrest has to be made. Drop the dime on your friend and the cash is yours!”
Young Antonio was a second grader at Chadbourn Elementary. The school had counselors on hand Monday for both children and adults.
Chadbourn Elementary School Principal Herman Bland posted on social media Sunday that a second grade student had died. Counselors were on hand Monday for children in need.
The sheriff said multiple agencies are assisting the sheriff’s office in the investigation.
”The SBI and Chadbourn Police are working with us on this,” Rogers said. “Since this was an innocent child, I called for all hands on deck.”
Investigators worked through the night Saturday and Sunday. An intensive investigation is still underway, sources close to law enforcement said.
District Attorney Jon David said his staff is standing by to assist in any way. Rogers contacted David shortly after the shooting was reported, he said.
Anyone with information about Saturday’s shooting is asked to contact the sheriff’s office.
Antonio’s memorial page on S&L Funeral Home website describes a child who was polite, smiled a lot and “looked out for” other children.
S&L of Fair Bluff is handling the arrangements.
