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Charlotte Crime Spree Ends in Police Shooting

Police vehicles and officers at a crime scene in Charlotte

Charlotte, NC, October 26, 2025

News Summary

A violent crime spree in Charlotte culminated in a police shooting that resulted in the death of 28-year-old suspect Joseph Andrade. The incident involved a fatal shooting, a kidnapping, and a police chase, raising serious concerns about public safety in the community. Following a series of aggressive actions by Andrade, law enforcement responded with deadly force after a shootout. Fortunately, no officers were injured, but the emotional impact on the community is profound.

Charlotte experienced a violent crime spree that ended with the police shooting and killing the suspect, 28-year-old Joseph Andrade, on October 23rd, 2025. Andrade’s criminal activities included a fatal shooting, a kidnapping, a police chase, and a violent shootout with officers, making this incident a grievous day for the local community.

The initial shooting occurred around 4 p.m. on North Hoskins Road in northwest Charlotte, where Andrade shot two victims, one of whom, 38-year-old Justin Carlton, was killed, while another individual is in critical condition. This brutal act marked the beginning of a disturbing series of events that unfolded throughout the day.

Following the shooting, authorities reported that Andrade forcibly entered a home, kidnapping a woman and stealing the homeowner’s vehicle. He fled the scene in the stolen car, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. Officers quickly located the vehicle, resulting in a vehicle pursuit.

During the chase, Andrade allegedly fired multiple rounds at police officers, damaging several patrol cars. The confrontation came to a climax when Andrade crashed the stolen vehicle at the intersection of Freedom Drive and Morehead Street. Disembarking from the vehicle, he continued to fire shots at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) officers.

In response, officers returned fire, leading to Andrade’s death on the scene. Fortunately, no officers were injured during the shootout. However, four officers were transported to a hospital as a precautionary measure. To support their officers and other personnel involved, CMPD is providing mental health resources.

Law enforcement recovered a firearm from the scene that was believed to have been used by Andrade during the crime spree. In the aftermath, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has announced that they will probe the officer-involved shooting, while CMPD will handle the inquiry regarding the initial homicide on North Hoskins Road. Currently, Andrade is identified as the sole suspect linked to both crime scenes.

Investigators are keenly working to determine Andrade’s motive behind these violent actions, particularly whether the home invasion was incidental or targeted. So far, authorities have stated there is no indication that Andrade had any prior relationship with the victims of the shooting. In a fortunate turn of events, the kidnapped woman was able to escape after the crash and was subsequently found safe by police.

The CMPD is urging anyone with additional information or video footage related to these incidents to step forward and assist with the ongoing investigations.

Background Information

This violent crime spree has raised immediate concern within the community regarding public safety. The events that unfolded on October 23rd serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of violent crime, and the swift response from law enforcement underscores the challenges faced by police in dealing with such situations. Community members are left grappling with the emotional aftermath of this tragic incident.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the suspect involved in the Charlotte crime spree?

The suspect was identified as 28-year-old Joseph Andrade.

What events occurred during the crime spree?

The crime spree included a fatal shooting, kidnapping, police chase, and shootout with officers.

What happened during the police chase?

Andrade fired multiple rounds at police during the pursuit, hitting several patrol cars, and the chase ended when he crashed the stolen vehicle.

Was anyone injured during the shootout with police?

No officers were injured during the shootout, but four were transported to a hospital as a precaution.

What led to the police involvement?

The police became involved after Andrade’s initial shooting on North Hoskins Road and subsequent kidnapping of a woman.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Suspect 28-year-old Joseph Andrade
Date of Incident October 23rd, 2025
Initial Shooting Location North Hoskins Road, northwest Charlotte
Victims Justin Carlton (deceased, age 38), another victim (in critical condition)
Kidnapping Incident Involved home invasion and vehicle theft
Police Response Pursuit of Andrade leading to shootout
Outcomes Andrade shot dead, no officers injured, four hospitalized for precaution

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Violent Crime Spree in Charlotte Leads to Deaths and Shootout
Suspect Dies Following Violent Shooting and Kidnapping in Charlotte
Charlotte Family Mourns Loss in Random Act of Violence
Fatal Shooting and Kidnapping Incident in Charlotte
Charlotte Man Charged with First-Degree Murder After Motel Shooting
Legal Tensions Rise in Capital Murder Case
Shooting Incident Injures Toddler in Charlotte

Additional Resources

HERE 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.

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