WILSON, N.C. (WNCN) — A Wilson teenager was found dead on Sunday, and his death is being investigated as a homicide, according to the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office.

CBS 17 is working to confirm any arrests made in this case.

On Sunday shortly after 9:15 a.m., the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office and EMS were dispatched to a man down call in the area of Landfill Road near U.S. Highway 264 Alt East.

The sheriff’s office said a male subject was laying in the ditch unresponsive and at the time of the call, his identity was unknown.

When EMS and deputies arrived, EMS pronounced Bernard Williams, 14, dead on arrival.

Bernard’s family affectionately called him “Tankman.”

 “It’s going to be hard getting over this loss. This is tragic to us and it hurts,” cousin JuJu Williams said. “I just want it to be known that Tankman’s life matters too. When you’re 14 years old you don’t have the opportunity to live your life and it’s just tragic.”

Williams’ family wants his bright smile and fun-loving personality to be what he’s remembered for.

“Tankman always kept a smile on his face, he always made other people smile and I am going to miss that smile,” JuJu Williams said.

The sheriff’s office said Williams is the victim of a homicide.

The case is under investigation. Anyone with information should contact the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office at 252-237-2118.