Chavonda Jones and Her 2-Year-Old Child Victimized in Laurinburg Shooting; Authorities Searching for Armed 16-Year-Old Henry Anderson in Connection with Attack

LAURINBURG, NC – Authorities are actively searching for 16-year-old Henry Anderson, who is wanted in connection with a violent shooting incident that left 23-year-old Chavonda Jones injured and her 2-year-old child critically wounded in Laurinburg, North Carolina, early on Sunday morning, March 16, 2025.

At approximately 12:50 a.m., the Laurinburg Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the 400 block of Hood Drive. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered two victims—Chavonda Jones, 23, and her 2-year-old child—suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims were quickly transported to Scotland Memorial Hospital for emergency medical treatment.

Chavonda Jones was treated for her injuries and later released from the hospital, but her 2-year-old child was airlifted to another medical facility in critical condition, where they remain under intensive care.

Preliminary investigations suggest that Jones and her child were sitting inside their vehicle when a red-colored vehicle approached them. A passenger in the red vehicle then opened fire, shooting both Jones and her child, as well as damaging their vehicle and nearby apartments.

Authorities later located the suspect vehicle abandoned. Following the discovery of the vehicle, police launched an intensive investigation, which led to the identification of the suspected shooter as 16-year-old Henry Anderson of 2041 Blakely Road, Laurinburg, NC.

The suspect, Anderson, has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including:

• Two counts of Attempted First-Degree Murder
• Three counts of Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Property
• Discharging a Firearm in City Limits
• Possession of a Firearm by a Minor

The release of Anderson’s name and details of the charges complies with North Carolina General Statute 7B-3103, which allows for the disclosure of juvenile offender information in cases involving serious violent crimes.

At this time, authorities are warning the public that Henry Anderson is considered armed and dangerous. They strongly advise against approaching Anderson if he is spotted. Instead, anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to immediately contact 911 or submit an anonymous tip.

Tips can be submitted to Scotland Crime Stoppers through several methods:

• Download the free mobile app: P3tips.com
• Visit the Crime Stoppers website: www.scotlandcountycs.com
• Call the Crime Stoppers hotline: 910-266-8146

A cash reward of up to $1,000 may be available for any information leading to Anderson’s arrest.

The shooting has shaken the local community, especially given the young age of the suspect and the severity of the incident. As the investigation continues, authorities are following up on leads to locate Henry Anderson and bring him to justice.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and updates will be provided as new information emerges. Meanwhile, both Chavonda Jones and her child are in the thoughts of local residents, as they hope for the child’s recovery from their critical injuries.

The Community Reacts

The tragic shooting has sparked widespread concern in Laurinburg and neighboring communities. Local residents have expressed shock at the senseless violence that occurred in their neighborhood, and many are rallying together to support the victims and demand justice.

Chavonda Jones, a mother who was reportedly simply trying to care for her child, has received an outpouring of sympathy from the public. Many have taken to social media to express their support and to call for accountability for the actions of the suspect, Henry Anderson.

Local authorities have reassured the public that they are doing everything in their power to bring Anderson into custody as soon as possible. In the meantime, the community is coming together to support the victims, with several fundraising efforts underway to help with medical bills and recovery costs.

This violent crime serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by many communities in combating gun violence, especially involving minors. The case has drawn attention to the ease with which young individuals, like Anderson, have access to firearms and the tragic consequences that can result.

A Call for Justice and Accountability

As authorities continue their search for Henry Anderson, local leaders are calling for greater accountability and stricter gun laws. The incident has ignited a broader conversation about the involvement of minors in violent crimes and the potential for more stringent measures to prevent such tragedies.

Many are questioning how Anderson, a 16-year-old, was able to possess and discharge a firearm with such apparent ease, despite his age. The issue of minors gaining access to firearms remains a significant concern, and many hope this case will prompt broader discussions and reforms aimed at curbing gun violence, particularly among young people.

A Plea for Information

As the investigation moves forward, authorities are asking anyone with information about Henry Anderson’s whereabouts or the details surrounding the shooting to come forward. They stress that even seemingly small pieces of information could be crucial in locating Anderson and bringing him to justice.

The Laurinburg Police Department and Scotland County Sheriff’s Office are working together to track down the suspect and ensure the safety of the community. As part of their efforts, the public has been encouraged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or tips they may have, no matter how insignificant they may seem.

The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as new details emerge. Authorities remain committed to finding Henry Anderson and ensuring justice is served for Chavonda Jones and her critically injured 2-year-old child.

As this case continues to unfold, the people of Laurinburg are waiting with bated breath for the moment when Anderson is captured and brought to justice. Until then, the community stands united in its determination to support the victims and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.