Two teenage brothers were shot dead in Lawrenceville, Georgia, during what police said was a vape-cartridge sale, with a 19-year-old man now facing murder charges.
Jordan Boykin, 17, and his 14-year-old brother Antoine were found with apparent gunshot wounds on Heather Stone Way at about 8.30pm on Wednesday, November 4. Both were pronounced dead at the scene, according to Gwinnett County police. ([cbsnews.com](https://www.cbsnews.com/atlanta/news/19-year-old-charged-with-murder-after-two-teens-shot-and-killed-in-lawrenceville/?intcid=CNR-01-0623))
Detectives allege that Alexander Canela-Panchi had arranged to meet the brothers to sell them vape cartridges. Police said an argument broke out during the transaction before both teenagers were shot.
Canela-Panchi has been charged with two counts each of felony murder and aggravated assault, as well as possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and possession with intent to distribute narcotics. The allegations have not been tested in court.
Family questions account of Lawrenceville shooting
The Boykin family has disputed the suggestion that the killings were simply the result of a failed vape deal, saying they believe money or jealousy may have played a role.
Aunt Genea Harris said the accused man was believed to be a friend of Jordan’s and lived nearby. She said Jordan regularly carried cash, his phone and car keys, and claimed those belongings were missing after the shooting.
“This person was supposed to be a friend of my nephew’s, and he clearly was not,” Harris said. “My nephew made money. That is what they wanted, was his money.” ([wsbtv.com](https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/family-says-jealousy-not-vapes-got-two-gwinnett-brothers-killed/64PJA5LWC5D7RGUYTBKFADFMAM/))
Police have not publicly confirmed the family’s account of missing property, and investigators have not disclosed what they believe triggered the argument. They have said the shooting appeared to be an isolated incident and that there was no continuing threat to the public. ([cbsnews.com](https://www.cbsnews.com/atlanta/news/19-year-old-charged-with-murder-after-two-teens-shot-and-killed-in-lawrenceville/?intcid=CNR-01-0623))
Tributes paid to brothers
The brothers attended Collins Hill High School. Jordan was a senior who was planning to go to university, while Antoine was a freshman.
Their mother, Meagan Boykin, said Jordan was a straight-A student preparing to graduate early and described Antoine as a kind-hearted boy who enjoyed basketball and making people laugh.
“I’m hurt. I’m in disbelief,” she said. “The worst of my life.”
Harris described the brothers as funny, kind and helpful members of their community, adding that relatives were relying on one another as the investigation continued.
Canela-Panchi remains in custody while detectives work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the deaths. The family has set up a fundraiser to help with funeral costs.
