Concern grows after alleged lynching of black man in Henderson, North Carolina

Concern is growing on social media following the alleged lynching of 21-year-old Javion McGee.

The case was brought to public attention by TikTok user @scottieprimpin, who shared her cousin’s death on the platform. McGee, a truck driver from Chicago, Illinois, was found hanging from a tree in Henderson, North Carolina, on September 11. Although police ruled the death a suicide, McGee’s family remains skeptical. @scottieprimpin is urging viewers to help raise awareness of the case.

According to the TikTok user, authorities informed the family that McGee had purchased a rope at Walmart before committing suicide. However, the family does not accept this explanation. @scottieprimpin said: “We obviously do not believe that and are only asking for your help in getting his story out there.”

The case has sparked online debate about Henderson, North Carolina, which supposedly has a history as a “sundown town.” Black people in these areas were prohibited from being outside after sunset from the 1890s until 1968 and were often subjected to violence, including lynchings. Many commentators believe McGee’s death may be connected to this history, casting doubt on the official ruling.

@scottieprimpin also claimed that police initially prevented McGee’s mother from identifying his body, citing COVID-19 protocols. Police later said McGee’s father had to give permission, which he did.

Henderson police clarified that the Vance County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation and that the incident did not occur within Henderson city limits.

McGee’s family is working with the appropriate authorities to gain more clarity, while the public is following the case closely for further developments.