Charlotte, N.C., August 13, 2025
News Summary
A mother was arrested after discharging her firearm at a back-to-school health fair in Charlotte, causing panic among over 100 attendees, including many children. The incident occurred when she fired shots in an attempt to intervene in a fight involving her son. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but chaos ensued as attendees fled. The woman faces charges including going armed to the terror of the people and was later released on bond. Local officials expressed concern about safety at community events meant to promote health and education.
Charlotte, N.C. – A mother was arrested after discharging her firearm at a back-to-school health fair, prompting panic among the attendees. Cherez Davis, 34, was taken into custody after firing two shots into the air in an apparent attempt to stop a fight involving her son and another child. The incident unfolded at approximately 1:10 p.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2025, during a community event held at the C.W. Williams Community Health Center.
Witnesses indicated that Davis retrieved her Taurus G6 handgun from her backpack after an adult intervened in the altercation. Following the gunfire, the crowd, which included over 100 people, many of whom were children, reacted with fear and chaos. Some attendees reportedly fled into oncoming traffic on a busy road; fortunately, there were no injuries reported as a result of the incident.
Authorities quickly apprehended Davis after receiving a description from witnesses. She was charged with going armed to the terror of the people and carrying a concealed weapon. The police were able to recover the weapon used in the incident for evidence. Following her arrest, Davis was released from jail on a $50,000 bond.
The C.W. Williams Community Health Center expressed disappointment over the violent outbreak during an event that was meant to promote community health and education. This event, a significant occasion marking both the 11th annual Back to School Health Fair and the 60th anniversary of community health centers, aimed to benefit local families. Debra Weeks, the center’s CEO, highlighted the need for safety at community events and lamented the occurrence of such violence at a positive gathering.
As a show of remorse, Davis expressed her apologies to the attendees on-site before law enforcement took her into custody. Local elected officials, including U.S. Rep. Alma Adams, who were present at the event, conveyed their gratitude for the community’s support and the swift response from law enforcement following the disturbance.
The incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges surrounding gun violence and safety within community spaces, especially in events aimed at fostering connection and support among families and children.
Background
The annual Back to School Health Fair is an important initiative, with this year marking its 11th occurrence. It serves to provide families with valuable information and resources as children prepare to return to school. The health center has a long history of serving the community, and this year’s event also commemorates 45 years of its operation, highlighting the critical role community health centers play in promoting public well-being.
Key Details of the Incident
- Date: August 9, 2025
- Location: C.W. Williams Community Health Center, Charlotte, N.C.
- Attendees: Over 100, including children
- Charges: Going armed to the terror of the people, carrying a concealed weapon
- Bail: $50,000
- Outcome: No injuries reported
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the back-to-school event in Charlotte?
A mother fired shots into the air during a fight involving her son, causing panic among attendees at a community health fair.
Was anyone injured during the incident?
No injuries were reported as a result of the shooting.
What charges did Cherez Davis face following her arrest?
Cherez Davis was charged with going armed to the terror of the people and carrying a concealed weapon.
What was the purpose of the Back to School Health Fair?
The Back to School Health Fair provides families with health resources and information as children return to school.
Key Incident Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | C.W. Williams Community Health Center |
| Date & Time | August 9, 2025, at 1:10 p.m. |
| Attendees | Over 100, including children |
| Charges Filed | Going armed to the terror of the people, carrying a concealed weapon |
| Bail Amount | $50,000 |
| Injuries | No injuries reported |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Shooting Incident Disrupts Back-to-School Fair in Charlotte
Additional Resources
- WBTV News
- Wikipedia: Gun violence in the United States
- WSOC-TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Health
- Charlotte Observer
- Google News: Back to School Health Fair Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte
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