Black NC Teen Assaulted By Mob Of White Teens, Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office Investigating
A disturbing video circulating across social media is causing outrage after it appeared to show a 16-year-old Black teen being assaulted by a mob of white individuals during what looked like a gathering around a bonfire.
The video, which has been widely shared online and reposted by local community pages, has now caught the attention of law enforcement.
On Thursday morning, the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that its Detective Division has launched an active investigation into the incident.
In a statement released to the public, the Sheriff’s Office said:
“We are aware of the disturbing video that was recently posted on Word of Mouth Kinston. The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division is actively investigating the incident.
At this time, the investigation is ongoing, and no further information will be released. We ask anyone with information related to this incident to contact the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office.
As always, we are committed to thoroughly investigating all reported criminal activity and ensuring the safety of our community.”
The video reviewed by The NC Beat appears to show a mob of white individuals gathered around a bonfire in what looks to be a rural outdoor setting.
The footage begins with one person appearing to flex his muscles while rap music plays loudly in the background.
As the camera pans, a white female can be seen punching the Black teen wearing what appears to be a pink shirt. Seconds later, another person wearing a white shirt, shorts, and a hat appears to follow up with a punch directed at the same boy.
In another portion of the video, another individual wearing a black shirt appears to place the Black teen into a chokehold.
The teen can then be seen struggling as several people surround him.
“Put Him To Sleep”
Perhaps the most craziest part of the video comes from voices in the background.
Multiple individuals can allegedly be heard encouraging the violence, with one voice saying, “Put him to sleep,” while another voice appears to say, “Put him down.”
As the struggle continues, the Black teen appears to become motionless.
The individual wearing the black shirt eventually releases his hold, and the teen can be seen lying on the ground while bystanders continue recording.
Another part of the footage appears to show a second physical confrontation involving the same Black teen as others gather around him and video record while assaulting him.
Family members said that the victim suffered several broken teeth and ruptured blood vessels as a result of the violent attack.Â
