Charlotte, December 24, 2025
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have arrested 51-year-old Marvin Watkins in connection with a fatal shooting that claimed the life of 39-year-old James McIlwain. The shooting occurred on Wallingford Street in south Charlotte. Following an extensive investigation, Watkins was apprehended over 250 miles from the crime scene and faces charges including first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. He is currently held without bond, with his next court date set for Thursday. Authorities continue to seek information from the community regarding the incident.
CHARLOTTE
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have recently arrested a man in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred last month in south Charlotte. Marvin Watkins, 51, faces charges including first-degree murder in the death of James McIlwain. The incident, which resulted in McIlwain’s death, took place on November 22, 2025, on Wallingford Street.
Investigation Leads to Arrest
The arrest of Marvin Watkins comes approximately one month after the deadly shooting. Watkins was apprehended by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation in Tarboro, North Carolina, located about 250 miles east of Raleigh. Following his arrest, Watkins was charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. He is currently being held without bond in the Mecklenburg County jail, with his next court appearance slated for Thursday.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Authorities responded to the shooting on November 22, 2025, around 2 a.m., on Wallingford Street near Exmore Street in south Charlotte. The victim, identified as 39-year-old James McIlwain, was killed during the incident. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting remains active and ongoing.
Community Assistance Requested
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department continues to urge anyone with information regarding this shooting to come forward. Individuals can directly contact a Homicide Unit detective by calling 704-432-8477. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the latest news regarding the fatal shooting in south Charlotte?
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have recently arrested a man in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred last month in south Charlotte.
Who was arrested in connection with the shooting?
Marvin Watkins, 51, was arrested and faces charges including first-degree murder.
Who was the victim in this incident?
The victim was identified as 39-year-old James McIlwain.
When and where did the shooting occur?
The shooting took place on November 22, 2025, around 2 a.m., on Wallingford Street near Exmore Street in south Charlotte.
What charges is Marvin Watkins facing?
Marvin Watkins is charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon.
Where is the suspect currently held?
Marvin Watkins is currently being held without bond in the Mecklenburg County jail.
When is the suspect’s next court date?
Marvin Watkins’ next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday.
Key Details of the South Charlotte Fatal Shooting and Arrest
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location of Incident | Wallingford Street near Exmore Street, South Charlotte |
| Date of Shooting | November 22, 2025, around 2 a.m. |
| Victim Identified As | James McIlwain, 39 |
| Suspect Arrested | Marvin Watkins, 51 |
| Charges Against Suspect | First-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a felon |
| Location of Arrest | Tarboro, North Carolina |
| Current Custody Status | Held without bond in Mecklenburg County jail |
| Next Court Date | Thursday |
| Investigating Agency | Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) and North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation |
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