NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT) — The New Bern Police Department (NBPD) in North Carolina has arrested two individuals, Kiyveon Pitts and Lawrence Evertt, in connection with the 2023 murder of 19-month-old Nia’Loni Sheptock.

Both individuals face charges of felony murder and attempted murder for the assault on her father, Nathan Sheptock.

NBPD, Craven County Sheriff’s Office, United States Attorney’s Office, and the FBI determined the shooting was gang-related and not a random act of violence.

On Aug. 14, Everett was arrested in Johnson City at 5:45 a.m. and awaits extradition to Craven County. Pitts was apprehended in the New Bern area at 10:30 a.m. and will be held at the Craven County Detention Center.

“No arrest can undo the tragic loss of Nia’Loni Sheptock, but we hope these arrests reaffirm our commitment to justice and deter future violence,” said NBPD Chief Pat Gallagher. “The NBPD and our partners remain dedicated to ensuring community safety and holding those responsible for violent crimes accountable.”

According to a press release, on July 4, 2023, at 9:51 p.m., NBPD officers responded to a shooting in the 1000 block of Lagrange Street. Officers found 19-month-old Nia’Loni Sheptock and her 22-year-old father, Nathan Sheptock, suffering from gunshot wounds inside a vehicle.

Both were transported to CarolinaEast Medical Center. Mr. Sheptock was treated and released, but Nia’Loni succumbed to her injuries the following day after being transferred to ECU Health.