Update 11/23/2021

Superintendent Brent Williams has provided the following statement:

On behalf of the entire LCPS family, I want to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Qwa'Jay Briscoe. We all were shocked and profoundly saddened by the news of his tragic death and the injuries sustained by his siblings. Our hearts are heavy with grief as we all join with Qwa'Jay's family and with the Banks Elementary School family in mourning the death of one of our own--- a wonderful young man who always brightened the lives of others. His was, indeed, a life and a bright light that ended much too soon. Within the overall sadness of this loss, we all can find comfort in considering the great and positive impact that Qwa'Jay's life had on all who knew him. Our school system family will continue to keep Qwa'Jay's entire family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of loss and healing.

Previous story:

A fire took the life of a Banks Elementary School student on Sunday, November 21, 2021. The mobile home fire located at 1879 Water Chestnut Drive in Kinston was reported by the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office.

“In situations like the tragedy involving the 8 year old Banks student, LCPS responds with a team of counselors to aid students and any other person at the school who needs to talk,” said Lenoir County Public School’s Public Information Officer Patrick Holmes.

The North Lenoir Volunteer Fire Department, La Grange Volunteer Fire Department and Lenoir County EMS responded to the call and the fire is being investigated.