In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a 14-year-old boy has been charged with murder in the fatal stabbing of 16-year-old Xavian Sawyer in Lincoln, Nebraska. Lancaster County Attorney Pat Condon announced on Wednesday that Stephen "Max" D'Amore will be tried as an adult for the crime.

D'Amore is facing charges of first-degree murder and use of a weapon to commit a felony. At his arraignment on Wednesday afternoon, D'Amore, an 8th grader, learned that if convicted, he could be sentenced to 50 years to life in prison.

During the hearing, it was revealed that D'Amore had a prior history of assaults, adding further weight to his charges. Lancaster County Judge Thomas Zimmerman set his bond at 10% of $750,000 and scheduled his next court appearance for June 20th.

The tragic incident unfolded early Sunday morning when Lincoln Police responded to a report of a fight at a residence near North 64th and Adams streets. Upon arrival, officers discovered 16-year-old Xavian Sawyer with two stab wounds to the chest. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Sawyer was pronounced dead at the hospital at approximately 1:40 a.m.

According to an arrest affidavit, Sawyer was able to identify D'Amore as his assailant before succumbing to his injuries. The dispute leading up to the altercation appears to have stemmed from ongoing conflicts related to vehicle vandalisms. However, authorities have not commented on the specific connection between the vandalisms and the attack. It is believed that Sawyer was unarmed at the time of the stabbing.

The community is mourning the loss of a young life and grappling with the shocking nature of the incident. The trial, set to proceed with D'Amore being tried as an adult, will undoubtedly be closely watched, and the outcome will have significant implications for all involved.

As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on seeking justice for Xavian Sawyer and providing support to those affected by this devastating act of violence.