In Loving Memory of Derek Devol Brandon II
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Winston-Salem community is mourning the tragic loss of 27-year-old Derek Devol Brandon II, who was fatally shot on Friday during a confrontation on Quantum Court. Derek’s untimely death has left family, friends, and neighbors grappling with grief and searching for ways to honor the life of a young man whose potential and spirit were cut short far too soon.
According to the Winston-Salem Police Department, officers responded at 11:50 a.m. to reports of a shooting. Upon arriving, they found Derek suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. The suspect, 25-year-old Je’Juan Khyre Watson, was located near the scene and taken into custody. Watson has been charged with felony murder and is currently held without bond at the Forsyth County Law Enforcement Detention Center.
Derek Devol Brandon II is remembered as a vibrant, ambitious, and caring individual. Those who knew him describe a man with a warm heart, quick smile, and a natural ability to brighten the lives of those around him. Derek was a devoted family member and friend, someone who cherished moments with loved ones and who had big dreams for the future. His presence in the community was felt through his kindness, generosity, and the positive energy he brought to every interaction.
The circumstances of Derek’s death are a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violence on families and communities. Friends and neighbors are coming together in support of Derek’s family, sharing memories, offering condolences, and holding space for collective grief. The tragedy has sparked conversations about safety, conflict resolution, and the importance of community solidarity in times of heartbreak.
Funeral arrangements and memorial services for Derek Devol Brandon II have yet to be announced, but the community is already planning ways to honor his life. From sharing stories of his laughter and compassion to creating lasting tributes in his name, those who loved Derek are determined to ensure that his memory lives on.
In remembering Derek, the Winston-Salem community is reminded to cherish every moment with loved ones, to extend kindness without hesitation, and to seek peace in times of conflict. Derek Devol Brandon II may no longer walk among us, but the impact of his life, the love he shared, and the joy he brought to others will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
His life, though tragically brief, serves as a reminder of the importance of community, connection, and compassion—values that Derek embodied every day. In honoring him, we hold his memory close, carry forward his spirit, and pledge to keep his legacy alive through the stories, love, and memories he left behind.
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