LAURINBURG, NC – A frantic manhunt is underway for 16-year-old Henry Anderson, who is accused of opening fire on a young mother and her toddler in a horrifying late-night attack. Authorities warn that Anderson is armed and dangerous, and they are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any sightings immediately.
The shocking shooting took place just after midnight on Sunday, March 16, 2025, in the 400 block of Hood Drive. Officers with the Laurinburg Police Department rushed to the scene after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in the area. When they arrived, they found a horrific scene—23-year-old Chavonda Jones and her 2-year-old child had been struck by bullets while sitting inside their car.
Jones was rushed to Scotland Memorial Hospital, where doctors treated her for her wounds before releasing her. However, her young child was critically injured and had to be airlifted to another medical facility for urgent care.
Gunfire Erupts from Red Vehicle Before Suspect Flees
Preliminary investigations revealed that the attack was not random. Authorities believe Jones and her child were sitting in their vehicle when a red-colored car pulled up beside them. Moments later, gunfire erupted, hitting both victims, their vehicle, and even nearby apartments.
Panicked neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots, followed by screams. Witnesses described seeing a red vehicle speed away from the scene before police arrived.
As officers combed the area for clues, they later found the suspect vehicle abandoned, leading them to a chilling discovery—the shooter had fled, leaving behind crucial evidence. After further investigation, authorities identified the prime suspect: 16-year-old Henry Anderson, a resident of Blakely Road, Laurinburg, NC.
Multiple Felony Charges Filed Against Anderson
Following the discovery of evidence linking Anderson to the crime, authorities obtained multiple arrest warrants against him. He is now facing a series of serious felony charges, 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 charges reflect the severity of the attack and underscore the ongoing crisis of gun violence involving juveniles. Because of the seriousness of the crime, law enforcement officials have publicly released Anderson’s information, a decision allowed under North Carolina General Statute 7B-3103 for juveniles accused of violent felonies.
Armed and Dangerous: Authorities Warn the Public to Stay Away
As police continue their urgent search for Anderson, they are warning the public that he should not be approached under any circumstances.
“If you see Henry Anderson or have any information on his whereabouts, do not attempt to engage him,” a spokesperson for the Laurinburg Police Department said. “Call 911 immediately and let law enforcement handle the situation.”
Authorities believe Anderson may still be armed and pose a significant danger to anyone who encounters him. As the search intensifies, local police are working alongside state and federal law enforcement agencies to track him down before he can strike again.
Laurinburg Residents in Shock and Fear
The brutal shooting has left the tight-knit community of Laurinburg reeling. Many residents, including those who live near the crime scene, have expressed fear and outrage over the violence.
“I woke up to the sound of gunshots. It was terrifying,” said one resident, who asked to remain anonymous. “I have kids of my own, and to think that a 2-year-old was shot—it just breaks my heart.”
Others are frustrated by the rise in violent crimes involving teens. “Sixteen years old and already facing attempted murder charges? Where are the parents? Where are the role models?” another resident questioned.
Law enforcement officials acknowledge the growing concerns, with Laurinburg Police Chief stating that the department is fully committed to taking violent offenders off the streets and ensuring justice is served.
How You Can Help: Submit Anonymous Tips and Earn a Cash Reward
As the search for Anderson continues, police are calling on the public to come forward with any information that could lead to his arrest. Authorities are offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for tips that directly result in his capture.
Anyone with details on Anderson’s location can submit tips through Scotland Crime Stoppers using the following methods:
📱 Download the free P3 Tips mobile app: P3tips.com
🌐 Submit an anonymous tip online: www.scotlandcountycs.com
📞 Call the Crime Stoppers hotline: 910-266-8146
All tips remain completely anonymous, and individuals providing information will not be required to reveal their identity.
Community Urged to Stay Vigilant as Investigation Unfolds
With Anderson still at large, police are increasing patrols in the area and urging residents to remain cautious. While they do not believe this was a random act of violence, they stress that a dangerous suspect remains on the run.
Authorities are actively monitoring locations Anderson may be hiding, including homes of friends, relatives, and known associates. In past cases, suspects on the run have attempted to evade capture by moving frequently, making public assistance critical to the investigation.
“We won’t stop until Henry Anderson is in custody,” law enforcement officials assured. “We owe it to the victims and the community to ensure that justice is served.”
This remains a rapidly developing story, and authorities will provide further updates as new information emerges.
