Charlotte, NC, October 5, 2025
News Summary
A 17-year-old has been arrested and charged with murder following the shooting death of 16-year-old Alexander Cruz Martinez at a parking deck in midtown Charlotte. The tragic incident highlights the ongoing concern of youth violence. The suspect additionally faces charges of robbery, conspiracy, and obstruction. Community members mourn Martinez’s loss, while school counselors are prepared to support affected students. Authorities continue their investigation and urge the public to come forward with any relevant information.
Charlotte
A 17-year-old has been charged with murder following the shooting death of 16-year-old Alexander Cruz Martinez in a parking deck in midtown Charlotte. The incident occurred on Wednesday night around 8 p.m. in the 900 block of Metropolitan Avenue, specifically at a Target store’s parking deck.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) has reported that an off-duty officer in the area heard a call for help and discovered Martinez suffering from gunshot wounds. The officer administered aid until MEDIC arrived. Martinez was subsequently transported to a local hospital but was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
In addition to the murder charge, the 17-year-old suspect faces charges of robbery with a dangerous weapon, felony conspiracy, and felony obstruction. CMPD has confirmed the identity of the victim as Alexander Cruz Martinez, who was a student at Rocky River High School.
Details have emerged about a second shooting that occurred shortly after the parking deck incident. The same 17-year-old suspect was found with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound at another location. He was treated at a local hospital before being arrested after his release.
As of now, CMPD has not disclosed additional information about the circumstances that led to the shootings or whether the two incidents are connected. The public is encouraged to provide any information regarding the case to the CMPD Homicide Unit or Charlotte Crime Stoppers.
The local community has expressed its grief over the loss of Martinez. Rocky River High School Principal David Legrand sent a notice to parents informing them that counselors would be available for students affected by the tragedy. Furthermore, a GoFundMe page has been established to help cover Martinez’s funeral costs.
Authorities urge the community to remain vigilant and come forward with any information that could assist in the ongoing investigation.
Background on the Situation
The shootings underscore the ongoing issue of youth violence, which has been a concern in Charlotte and across the nation. The tragic loss of Martinez has resonated within the community, prompting discussions about safety in public spaces and the need for resources to support affected families and students within the school system.
The CMPD has not released any new information regarding the motive behind the shootings as of the publication date. Community members await updates as the investigation continues.
FAQ
What happened in Charlotte on Wednesday night?
On Wednesday night, a 16-year-old boy named Alexander Cruz Martinez was shot in the parking deck of a Target in midtown Charlotte, resulting in life-threatening injuries. He was later pronounced dead.
Who has been charged in connection to the shooting?
A 17-year-old has been charged with murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon, felony conspiracy, and felony obstruction in connection to the shooting of Alexander Cruz Martinez.
Is there any information on a second shooting?
Details about a second shooting that occurred shortly after the incident at the parking deck are limited. However, police found the 17-year-old suspect suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound at another location.
What is being done for the students affected by this incident?
Rocky River High School Principal David Legrand has informed parents that counselors would be available for students affected by the incident.
How can the public assist in the investigation?
Authorities encourage anyone with information related to the case to contact the CMPD Homicide Unit or Charlotte Crime Stoppers.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Stabbing Incident on Charlotte Transit System
Tragic Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee Sparks National Debate
Teen Charged with Murder in Charlotte Shooting
Young Trump Voters React to the Assassination of Charlie Kirk
Charlotte Police Union Seeks National Guard Amid Crime Surge
Andrea Leslie-Fite Appointed as Charlotte’s City Attorney
Charlotte Hosts a Weekend Full of Fascinating Events
Charlotte Transit Enhances Security Following Stabbing Incident
Mayor Lyles Rejects National Guard Request Amid Crime Concerns
Local Police Seek Federal Support Amid Rising Violence
Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: Shooting in Midtown Charlotte
- Wikipedia: Youth Violence
- WCCB Charlotte: One Person Dead After Shooting
- Google Search: Charlotte shootings recent news
- WCNC: Shooting Near Uptown Charlotte
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- WSOC TV: Shooting in Northeast Charlotte
- Google News: Charlotte crime news
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.
