Charlotte Crime Stoppers

Homicide detectives in Charlotte-Mecklenburg are seeking tips in the case of 44-year-old James Mathew Rodriguez, whose death was ruled a homicide on May 26 after an initial welfare check on May 22. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) and other agencies are processing evidence and urging the public to contact Charlotte Crime Stoppers for information.

Two 16-year-olds, Kha-Zai McIllwain and Devonterival Miller, were arrested and charged with murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon in connection with a fatal April 2026 shooting in University City. The victim, 38-year-old Virgil Leroy Hardeman Jr., died from gunshot wounds sustained during the incident.

Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department are investigating a fatal shooting in the University City area that occurred shortly before 1 a.m. on Tuesday. The 20-year-old victim, Jaelen McCormick, was found with a life-threatening gunshot wound and later died at a local hospital. Authorities have not disclosed details about the incident's cause or identified any suspects.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is seeking public assistance in locating 37-year-old Brandi Merrick, who was last seen leaving a family member's residence on Houldsworth Drive on June 8. Detectives from the department's Missing Persons Unit are investigating her disappearance, and the public is urged to provide information via 911 or Charlotte Crime Stoppers.