A Nassau mother is confronting what she anticipates will be the most agonizing holiday season of her life following the brutal murder of her teenage son just weeks before Christmas. Shanique Griffiths, mother of 17-year-old Javaughn Deveaux, expressed her profound grief in an emotional interview with The Tribune, stating she doubts her ability to endure the coming days.
The devastating tragedy unfolded on December 8 when Deveaux’s body was discovered on a dirt road off Gladstone Road with severe injuries to his head and upper torso. The incident marked the nation’s 80th homicide for the year according to official records, with authorities subsequently charging a 15-year-old male in connection with the killing.
Griffiths recounted how she and her son had been actively planning Christmas portrait sessions mere weeks before his death—joyful preparations that have now become painful reminders of his absence. The grieving mother revealed that Deveaux had secretly planned to surprise her by introducing his girlfriend, a revelation she only learned after his tragic passing.
As the holiday approaches, Griffiths has abandoned all traditional celebrations. The mother of three, who also has daughters aged four and ten, described having no motivation for holiday preparations including hair appointments, nail treatments, or purchasing new clothing. She has requested solitude during the holidays, allowing relatives to take her daughters while she processes her immeasurable loss.
The bond between mother and son was exceptionally close, with Deveaux described as a gentle and supportive presence who consistently comforted his mother during stressful moments. The CI Gibson High School student was scheduled to graduate next year and aspired to pursue a career in law enforcement.
Griffiths poignantly recalled her son’s habit of reassuring her during difficult times, including recent words of comfort while she was hospitalized. The memory now serves as both comfort and anguish following his sudden death. The grieving mother noted that despite previous family losses, including a sister and grandfather, the pain of losing her child transcends all previous experiences.
The depth of her grief manifests in heartbreaking details throughout her home—particularly the uneaten food still waiting in the refrigerator that she prepared for her son’s return. Unable to discard these final remnants of his presence, Griffiths navigates what she describes as ‘the worst feeling ever’ while seeking justice for her murdered son.