Introduction to Burlie Dawson Locklear
Burlie Dawson Locklear III, known affectionately to those close to him as Pudie and Stump, was a bright young man with a promising future. Born on July 18, 2006, in Moore County, North Carolina, to Burlie Dawson Locklear II and Heather Renee Martin, he was loved deeply by his family and friends. Tragically, at the tender age of 18, his life was cut short in a senseless act of violence on September 13, 2024. Burlie’s story is one that embodies both the love and pain felt by his loved ones and the community at large. His passing not only left a hole in the hearts of those who knew him, but also sparked a call for justice that continues to reverberate.
Burlie’s Early Life and Family
Burlie was born into a close-knit family in North Carolina. He was the son of Burlie Dawson Locklear II and Heather Renee Martin, and he shared a deep bond with his siblings. Burlie had one sister, Kierra Martin, who lives in Virginia, and one brother, Aaron Locklear, who resides in Red Springs. The Locklear family is known for its strong ties to their community, and Burlie was raised with a sense of responsibility and care for those around him.
A Family of Love and Support
Burlie’s maternal and paternal families played a crucial role in shaping his character. He was raised with the love of his grandparents, including Burlie Dawson Locklear Sr., Darlene Locklear, and Donald Martin. Tragically, they passed away before him, but their legacy of love and support continues to live on in Burlie’s memory.
Burlie’s extended family members were also an integral part of his life, providing him with guidance and strength. His aunts and uncles, including Daniel Locklear, Elizabeth Locklear, Megan Locklear (James Winston), and others, were there for him, offering him a sense of belonging and family unity. His special nieces and nephews, Willow, Winnie Jo, Wriley, Wremi, Joseph, and Alaya, were a source of joy in his life.
The Tragic Event
Burlie Dawson Locklear’s life was tragically cut short during a routine day at work. On September 13, 2024, he was employed as a cook at the Waffle House located at 1302 Scotland Crossing Drive in Laurinburg, North Carolina. What should have been just another day on the job turned into a nightmare when a customer, frustrated with the wait for his food, became agitated.
A Violent Outburst
The situation escalated when the customer, whose name was later revealed to be Florwer Carlin Lizano, initiated a verbal altercation with Burlie. The exchange quickly turned violent when Lizano, after receiving his order, fired two shots into the restaurant, one of which struck Burlie. The young man was rushed to Scotland Memorial Hospital, but despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.
This senseless act of violence shocked the community and left a profound impact on those who knew Burlie. The loss of a young life in such a violent and unexpected manner sparked outrage and mourning among his family and friends, as well as the broader community of Laurinburg and beyond.
The Pursuit of Justice
Following the tragic shooting, authorities immediately launched an investigation to bring Burlie’s killer to justice. An arrest warrant was issued for Florwer Carlin Lizano, who went into hiding after the incident. The arrest warrant charged Lizano with first-degree murder, and the authorities began an intense search for him.
Months of Uncertainty
For months, Burlie’s family and friends were left in limbo, waiting for justice to be served. Megan Locklear, a relative, expressed the emotional toll of the situation, sharing how difficult it was to know that the person responsible for Burlie’s death was still at large. She described the sense of unease that lingered each day, knowing that Burlie’s killer was free.
A Breakthrough in the Case
After several months of searching, the authorities managed to track Lizano down in Virginia in January 2025. He was arrested and is currently awaiting extradition to North Carolina to face the charges against him. While this arrest brought some sense of closure to the family, it does little to heal the deep wounds left by the loss of a beloved young man.
The Impact on the Community
Burlie Dawson Locklear’s death has left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the community. In the wake of the tragedy, many have rallied around his family, offering their condolences and support. The outpouring of grief from the community reflects the deep love and respect people had for Burlie, as well as the collective shock at such a violent and senseless crime.
A Legacy of Kindness and Love
Those who knew Burlie remember him as a caring, hard-working young man who was always willing to help others. His family and friends describe him as someone who had a positive outlook on life and was deeply loved by all who knew him. He had a bright future ahead of him, and his untimely passing has left a void that will never be filled.
In honor of his memory, many in the community have come together to celebrate Burlie’s life. Memorial services and gatherings have been held to ensure that his legacy lives on. While his life was cut short, Burlie’s impact on those who knew him will never be forgotten.
The Road to Healing
Burlie’s family continues to seek justice and healing after his tragic death. The arrest of Florwer Carlin Lizano is a step toward accountability, but the pain of losing Burlie will never fully heal. For his parents, siblings, and extended family, the journey of grief is ongoing, and they will carry the memory of Burlie with them for the rest of their lives.
Moving Forward with Love and Strength
As the legal proceedings unfold, Burlie’s family draws strength from one another. They continue to hold onto the love that Burlie brought into their lives and the lessons he taught them. In their eyes, he was more than just a victim of violence—he was a young man with dreams and aspirations, a son, a brother, and a friend. His life, though tragically short, will continue to inspire and shape the lives of those who loved him.
Conclusion
Burlie Dawson Locklear’s life and legacy are a testament to the strength of love, community, and justice. While his tragic death has left a profound sense of loss, the support from his family, friends, and community serves as a reminder of the deep impact one person can have on the world. As the pursuit of justice continues, the memory of Burlie will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, ensuring that his story is never forgotten.
