Two men have been arrested after the tragic death of national kart racing champion, Tyler Weaver, following an alleged home invasion incident. The champion, aged 25, was found dead at a property in Forest City, N.C. on October 24th. Police were called to the scene of a home invasion around 9:50 a.m. where Weaver was discovered on the floor with fatal gunshot wounds. Authorities confirmed that Tyler Weaver had won the Maxxis National Championship twice in 2018. Forest City Police Chief Chris LeRoy described the incident as a “robbery gone bad” and indicated that it appeared to be a targeted attack.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/tyler-weaver-110725-1-3a5ecbbf4c3c4f9b929a82bcff2b923f.jpg)
According to a press release published on November 4th, the investigation revealed that Weaver’s partner, Nevaeh Quintero, was present at the property during the invasion but managed to escape and notify the authorities. First responders conducted a search in the wooded area surrounding the home but were unable to locate the suspects initially. Subsequently, arrest warrants for first-degree murder were issued against Jaquavious Antwan Craig, 26, and Quitez Lamare Watkins, 35. Watkins was taken into custody on November 3rd and held without bond by the Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, while Craig surrendered on the same day.
The Forest City Police Department praised the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies including the Tri-City Violent Crime Task Force, Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals Office, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, and Shelby Police Department, which significantly contributed to progressing the case. Recognising their assistance, authorities expressed gratitude as it helped expedite the investigation and bring closure to the victim’s family. Both suspects are expected to appear in court on November 12th for further hearings regarding the case.
Maxxis Kart Racing North America, where Tyler Weaver was a celebrated champion, paid tribute to him on social media following his untimely demise. The heartfelt post acknowledged Weaver’s accomplishments as a champion and his close bond with his late father, Danny Weaver, in the world of kart racing. It further extended condolences to Weaver’s family, friends, and fellow racers who shared the track with him. The racing community mourns the loss of a talented individual whose legacy will always remain a part of their cherished memories.
Tyler Weaver’s obituary revealed that he was working as an electrical tradesman in construction at the time of his passing. He leaves behind his mother, step-father, sisters, his partner Nevaeh Quintero, and other close family members. As the investigation continues and legal proceedings unfold, the community awaits further updates on the case. The impact of his loss reverberates through the sport of kart racing and beyond, as those who knew Tyler Weaver continue to cherish his memory and honour his racing legacy.
In moments of tragedy, the strength of community support and collaborative law enforcement efforts becomes evident. The swift arrest of the suspects in connection with Tyler Weaver’s death highlights the dedication of law enforcement agencies to pursue justice and bring closure to affected families. As the legal process unfolds, the memories of Tyler Weaver’s achievements and the impact of his loss serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit within the kart racing community.