Rylan Strickland Death and Obituary – Rylan A. Strickland, a 17-year-old resident of Pembroke, North Carolina, tragically lost his life in a shooting during the early morning hours of Friday, December 26, 2025. The fatal incident has shocked the local community and prompted an ongoing homicide investigation by the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, the shooting occurred at approximately 12:20 a.m. during a Christmas gathering in the 1500 block of Canal Road, located south of Pembroke. Deputies were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of an individual who had been shot. Upon arrival, law enforcement officials discovered Strickland deceased at the location. Emergency medical services confirmed that he had succumbed to his injuries before he could be transported for treatment.
Rylan Strickland was described by friends and family as a young man with a promising future whose life was cut tragically short. As news of his death spread, the Pembroke community expressed grief and outrage, particularly given the timing of the incident during what is traditionally a season of peace and celebration. Vigils and tributes began circulating on social media, with many residents calling for justice and an end to gun violence affecting young people.
Following an intensive investigation, the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with the shooting. On the morning of December 27, 2025, deputies executed a search warrant at a residence on the same block of Canal Road where the shooting occurred. During that operation, Kaiden S. Demery, an 18-year-old male from Pembroke, was taken into custody without incident.
Demery has been formally charged with first-degree murder in relation to Strickland’s death. Authorities confirmed that he is currently being held at the Robeson County Detention Center without bond. Due to the severity of the charge, Demery is expected to make an initial court appearance in the coming days, where further legal proceedings will be outlined.
The investigation remains active and is being jointly handled by the Homicide and Juvenile Divisions of the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office. Detectives are continuing to interview witnesses, review evidence from the scene, and determine the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting. Officials have not yet released details regarding a possible motive or whether additional individuals may face charges.
Law enforcement is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has relevant information to come forward. Members of the public are encouraged to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-671-3100. Authorities emphasize that community cooperation is critical in ensuring accountability and bringing closure to Strickland’s family.
As Pembroke mourns the loss of Rylan A. Strickland, his death serves as a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and the importance of community efforts to protect young lives.
