Lillington Incident: Two Children Suffering Severe Injuries During Police Encounter

Lillington, North Carolina, Two Black Children Playing Basketball Assaulted by Police, with the 12-Year-Old Choked in Handcuffs, Suffering a Concussion and Ear Injury

For Deonnia Lyon and her family, the fight for justice is just beginning, with hopes that sharing their story will lead to real change and protect other children from similar traumas.

January 5, 2026

In a Lillington neighborhood, a New Year's Day basketball game turned into a nightmare for two young Black brothers amid allegations of police assault and serious injuries.

Deonnia Lyon witnessed officers allegedly attack her sons, Zamauri Chance, 17, and Carter Chance, 12, resulting in severe harm and sparking community outrage over perceived racial bias.

The incident, captured on video and widely shared, shows police action that community members say was excessive given the circumstances.

The event unfolded at the boys' godparents' residence in Vandercroft Farms, where a neighbor reported a boy in red carrying a gun to authorities.

Despite Zamauri admitting to possessing a firearm earlier, he was confronted by officers who claimed he had it on him during the encounter.

Officer Andrew Kesick detained Zamauri before turning to Carter, who was already handcuffed, leading to video footage showing the 12-year-old being tackled and choked despite appearing non-threatening.

Lyon described the trauma in an emotional post, emphasizing the racial undertones and the lack of accountability for the officers involved.

“My kids were attacked by a selfish racist cops due to a phone call being mad with the description of a boy in red and he was never touched in the video but my 12 and 12 year old was choked in handcuffs!!”

“This is not all Lillington police but it’s those right here I unfortunately went to school with him but he doesn’t need to be officer,”

She urged sharing the story to prevent future incidents, noting the disparity in how Black youth are treated by law enforcement.

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The boys were badly hurt physically

Zamauri required stitches for an earlobe injury, while Carter endured facial bruising, a dislocated shoulder, and potential concussion from the chokehold.

Lyon criticized the officers' handling, pointing out that a suspect with a weapon faced no consequences while her sons were severely injured.

She also alleged biased treatment, citing an officer dismissing Carter's age and claims of targeting multiple Black children in the area.

Lyon directly accused Ranea Linz of contributing to the harassment of Black youth in the neighborhood through her actions.

Community outrage grew as calls for accountability intensified, with many demanding action against Officer Kesick and highlighting systemic issues.

Comments from residents reflected shock and frustration over the use of force against children and the perceived racial bias in policing.

Katherine emphasized the need for judicial intervention to address corruption and ensure fair law enforcement.
Sandra Miller condemned the officers' actions and called for their termination, referencing prior disciplinary records.

As the video circulates, the case underscores ongoing struggles with race, policing, and community trust nationwide.

For Deonnia Lyon and her family, the pursuit of justice continues, aiming to protect other children from comparable experiences.

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Comments

Katherine
Criticism of systemic corruption and calls for federal oversight.
Sandra Miller
Demands for immediate termination of involved officers due to racial profiling.
Vicki Edwards
Expresses disbelief at the incident and hopes for the boys’ recovery.