The family of teenage twin brothers Qaadir and Naazir Lewis are ready to accept that their deaths in March 2025 were a result of suicide. The bodies of the two brothers, 19, from Lawrenceville, Georgia, were discovered by hikers at the summit of Bell Mountain in Hiawessee on March 8, 2025.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) initially suggested that their deaths could be a “murder suicide”, that is to say that one of the brothers killed the other one before dying by suicide himself.
The agency later said that “comprehensive investigation indicates the injuries causing their deaths were self-inflicted.”
Over a year since the tragic incident, the twins’ aunt, Yasmine Brawner, stated on Facebook that the family has ultimately accepted the ruling.
“In our search for answers and clarity, we carefully reviewed the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) case files and retained two independent homicide investigators who thoroughly reviewed the evidence and investigative records. We also obtained independent autopsy reviews,” she wrote.
“While this has been incredibly painful to accept, we remain committed to honoring Naazir and Qaadir’s memory, promoting mental health awareness, and helping others know they are not alone.”
Brawner added that the family wanted to “sincerely thank everyone” who supported them with GoFundMe donations as well as “ continued love, prayers, and kindness.”
“Your contributions helped us cover burial expenses, obtain independent autopsy reviews, retain two independent homicide investigators to carefully review the case files, and support mental health counseling for our family during this difficult time,” she wrote. “We are deeply grateful for every act of support and compassion shown to us.”
Relatives had previously revealed that they thought the teenage brothers were visiting friends in Boston at the time of their deaths – they had reportedly booked flights around 24 hours prior to when their bodies were found with gunshot wounds.
The GBI’s investigation included records indicating that “Naazir purchased ammunition used in the gun.” Said ammo was delivered to his house two days before the brothers went to the mountain, according to CNN.
Rest in peace, Qaadir and Naazir Lewis.
