Charlotte, NC, October 26, 2025
News Summary
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police are investigating a homicide that occurred in east Charlotte near Central Avenue and Eastcrest Drive. This incident follows recent violent crimes, including a shooting that left one victim dead and another in critical condition. The police have confirmed there is currently no evidence that the suspect had any prior connection to the victims. The community is urged to remain vigilant as investigations continue into this tragic event.
Charlotte – Charlotte-Mecklenburg police are currently investigating a homicide that took place in east Charlotte near Central Avenue and Eastcrest Drive. The incident, reported at around 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, marks a developing story as police continue their thorough investigation. The investigation is being led by the homicide unit; however, detailed information regarding the incident has not yet been released.
This tragic event follows a violent crime spree that began just two days earlier. On Thursday, Oct. 23, a shooting occurred on North Hoskins Road, resulting in two victims being shot. One of the victims, identified as 38-year-old Justin Westbrooks Carlton, succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to the hospital. The other victim remains in critical condition. The alleged shooter, 28-year-old Joseph Andrade, reportedly started firing weapons at 4 p.m. on that Thursday.
During the same spree, Andrade kidnapped a woman and fled the scene in a stolen vehicle, initiating a police pursuit. During the chase, Andrade fired at officers and struck several patrol cars; fortunately, no injuries were reported among the officers. The chase concluded at Freedom Drive and West Morehead Street, where Andrade crashed his vehicle. He exited the wreck and continued firing at police, which led to officers returning fire and resulting in Andrade’s death at the scene. The kidnapped woman managed to escape after the crash and was subsequently located and found safe by authorities.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings indicated that the actions of the officers involved likely prevented further loss of life during the incident. Following the confrontation, four officers were evaluated at the hospital as a precaution but were ultimately unharmed. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has taken charge of the inquiry into the officer-involved shooting, while CMPD continues to lead the homicide investigation.
Importantly, police have indicated there is currently no evidence that Andrade was acquainted with any of his victims, suggesting the attacks were random. In the wake of Carlton’s death, family and friends are mourning the loss of a man they describe as kind, loyal, and full of life. His tragic passing has left a profound impact on those who knew him, further emphasizing the community’s grief over the recent string of violence.
As the investigation unfolds, members of the community are urged to remain vigilant and report any pertinent information regarding the incidents to the police. The departments are looking to ensure safety and restore peace amid increasing concerns about violent crime.
FAQ
What incident are the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police investigating?
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police are investigating a homicide reported in east Charlotte near Central Avenue and Eastcrest Drive.
When did the reported death occur?
The death was reported around 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25.
What happened on Thursday, Oct. 23?
A shooting occurred on North Hoskins Road, where two people were shot, and one victim, 38-year-old Justin Westbrooks Carlton, later died from his injuries.
Who was the alleged shooter?
The alleged shooter was identified as 28-year-old Joseph Andrade.
What happened during the police chase?
Andrade fired at police during a chase, hitting several patrol cars. He was ultimately shot and killed by the officers after crashing his vehicle.
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Additional Resources
- WBTV: Death investigation underway off busy East Charlotte road
- Wikipedia: Charlotte, North Carolina
- WCNC: Man killed in Charlotte NC crime spree crossfire
- Google Search: Charlotte crime spree
- WCCB: Multiple people shot, multiple crashes reported amid incident in Northwest Charlotte
- Google Scholar: Charlotte violent crime
- WBTV: Lives were saved by police who killed shooting, kidnapping suspect, Charlotte chief says
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlotte crime
- WSOC TV: CMPD conduct death investigation in East Charlotte
- Google News: Charlotte police investigation
Author: HERE Charlotte
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