On July 24, 2025, Hickory Police announced the arrest of 19-year-old Jaheem Quashawn Harris of Lynview Street N.E., Lenoir, in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred earlier this month. Harris faces murder charges related to the July 14, 2025, homicide at Keating Pointe Apartments, located at 1123 2nd Street SE in Hickory. He is currently being held without bond at the Catawba County Detention Facility, with a first court appearance scheduled for July 24, 2025, in Newton District Court.
The incident began around 5:40 p.m. on July 14, when Hickory Police responded to reports of gunfire at the apartment complex. Upon arrival, officers discovered 22-year-old Keimarian Donyah Peterson of Hickory deceased at the scene, having suffered apparent gunshot wounds. According to family members, Peterson was walking home after taking his nieces to the Brown Penn Recreation Center, where he had also worked out, when the shooting occurred. Authorities have noted that a red Dodge Charger may be linked to the incident, which is being investigated as a possible drive-by shooting, though this connection remains under review.
The Lenoir Police Department assisted Hickory authorities in locating and apprehending Harris, leading to his arrest on July 24. The investigation remains ongoing, with police actively seeking additional evidence and witness accounts to clarify the circumstances surrounding Peterson’s death. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Investigator Tammie Johnson at [email protected] or call the Hickory Police Department at 828-328-5551.
The Hickory community continues to grieve the loss of Keimarian Donyah Peterson as investigators work to uncover the full details of this tragic event.