Charlotte, NC, September 3, 2025
News Summary
David Gary Graves, a 40-year-old man, has been charged with murder and attempted robbery after a shooting incident on Hoskins Mill Lane in Charlotte. The victim, Sean Nicholas Watson, 48, succumbed to injuries at the hospital. CMPD arrested Graves after an investigation revealed evidence connecting him to the crime. Authorities urge the community to assist in the ongoing investigation by providing information to the Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers.
Charlotte, NC – A 40-year-old man, David Gary Graves, has been charged with murder and attempted robbery following a shooting incident that left another man dead in Charlotte. The incident took place shortly after midnight on Thursday, August 28, on Hoskins Mill Lane.
Officers from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) responded to reports of an assault with a deadly weapon. Upon arrival, they discovered the victim, 48-year-old Sean Nicholas Watson, suffering from a gunshot wound. Watson was swiftly transported to Atrium Health’s Carolinas Medical Center, where he was treated for life-threatening injuries.
Despite medical efforts, Watson succumbed to his injuries and passed away on Saturday, August 30. The tragedy prompted a swift investigation by the CMPD, which identified Graves as a suspect in the shooting.
On Sunday, the day after Watson’s death, Graves was arrested by CMPD’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team. The arrest followed the issuance of warrants based on evidence gathered during the preliminary investigation. Following his capture, Graves was transferred to the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.
As of Tuesday, he remained in custody at the Mecklenburg County Detention Center, being held without bond. The authorities are continuing to investigate the shooting incident and are urging anyone with additional information to reach out to the Homicide Unit at 704-432-8477 or provide tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Background of the Incident
This incident underscores the ongoing issues of violent crime in many urban areas, including Charlotte. Although detailed information about the circumstances leading up to the shooting has not been fully disclosed, local law enforcement is taking the necessary steps to ensure community safety and address violent criminal activity.
Importance of Community Cooperation
The CMPD’s call for assistance from the community demonstrates the significance of public support and information-sharing in resolving such cases efficiently. The police department relies on tips and information from citizens to aid in their investigations, emphasizing the role of community collaboration in enhancing public safety.
FAQs
Who is David Gary Graves?
David Gary Graves is a 40-year-old man charged with murder and attempted robbery in connection to a fatal shooting incident in Charlotte.
What happened on Hoskins Mill Lane?
A shooting occurred shortly after midnight on August 28, resulting in the injury of Sean Nicholas Watson, who later died in the hospital.
When did the victim pass away?
Sean Nicholas Watson succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, August 30.
How did police locate David Gary Graves?
CMPD’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team arrested him based on the warrants obtained through the ongoing investigation.
What should I do if I have information about the case?
If you have information regarding the incident, you can contact the CMPD Homicide Unit at 704-432-8477 or provide anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: Hoskins Mill Lane Shooting Investigation
- Wikipedia: Violent Crime
- WBTV: Man Charged with Murder
- Google Search: Murder Investigation Charlotte
- WSOC: Teens Charged with Murder
- Google Scholar: Crime in Charlotte
- WCNC: Underage Suspects Charged
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Criminal Law
- WSOC: Drive-by Shooting Charges
- Google News: Homicide Investigation Charlotte

Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.


