Uptown Charlotte, January 14, 2026
On Saturday, two individuals were arrested in Uptown Charlotte after allegedly breaking into at least 24 vehicles during the Carolina Panthers playoff game. The incidents unfolded around 6:40 p.m. in parking areas behind Bank of America Stadium. Reports indicated that multiple valuable items were stolen, including firearms, cash, and electronics. A witness’s prompt report led to a swift police response, resulting in the arrests of Anthony Canada and Na’im Stroman El, who are now facing numerous charges.
Charlotte
Duo Arrested in Uptown Following Extensive Car Break-ins During Panthers Playoff Game
Two individuals, Anthony Canada and Na’im Stroman El, were arrested in Uptown Charlotte on Saturday, January 13, 2026, after allegedly breaking into at least 24 cars during the Carolina Panthers playoff game. The widespread vehicle break-ins caused significant disruption for fans attending the high-profile sporting event.
Incident Details Emerge
The alleged criminal activity unfolded around 6:40 p.m., targeting parking areas located directly behind Bank of America Stadium, specifically along Westmere Avenue. The busy atmosphere of a playoff game, which saw the Carolina Panthers face off against the Los Angeles Rams, seemingly provided an opportunity for the suspects. Reports indicate that at least 24 vehicles were targeted, though items were confirmed stolen from nine vehicles. Among the stolen items were multiple firearms, with at least three and possibly four being reported, along with hundreds of dollars in cash, an expensive purse, an iPad, a Nintendo Switch, various articles of clothing, other electronics, a game console, a tablet, and power tools. Law enforcement has since recovered one of the stolen firearms.
Swift Police Response Leads to Arrests
The arrests followed a vigilant citizen’s report to 911. A witness observed two men utilizing a chain to forcibly enter vehicles. Authorities swiftly responded, locating an SUV believed to be connected to the suspects within minutes of the initial report. A pursuit ensued, involving a police helicopter that tracked the vehicle until the individuals abandoned it. Anthony Canada and Na’im Stroman El were subsequently apprehended while attempting to hide in a nearby construction site. Police are actively seeking a third individual who is believed to have been involved in the crime.
Charges Filed and Ongoing Concerns
Both Canada and Stroman El are currently facing well over three dozen charges in connection with the widespread break-ins. They are each being held on a $10,000 secured bond. Further investigation revealed that Canada was reportedly in possession of stolen guns. A particularly troubling development in the case is the fate of several firearms reportedly discarded by the suspects during the police pursuit. Officers observed a group of juveniles retrieving these weapons and fleeing the scene. The relationship between the arrested individuals and these juveniles, if any, remains unclear as the investigation continues.
Impact on Community and Event Security
The incident served as a stark reminder of the security challenges that can arise during large public gatherings. Fans attending the Carolina Panthers’ playoff game, which the Panthers ultimately lost to the Los Angeles Rams by a score of 34-31, not only experienced the disappointment of a defeat but also the distress of having their personal property compromised. Car break-ins can lead to significant financial burdens for victims, including repair costs for damaged vehicles and the replacement of stolen valuables, in addition to the emotional toll of feeling their sense of security violated. This event highlights the ongoing need for robust security measures and public awareness to mitigate such criminal activities in bustling urban environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What happened in Uptown Charlotte on Saturday, January 13, 2026?
- Two individuals, Anthony Canada and Na’im Stroman El, were arrested after allegedly breaking into at least 24 cars in Uptown Charlotte during the Carolina Panthers playoff game on Saturday, January 13, 2026.
- When did the car break-ins occur?
- The alleged break-ins happened around 6:40 p.m. on Saturday, January 13, 2026.
- Where in Uptown Charlotte did the incidents take place?
- The incidents occurred in parking areas behind Bank of America Stadium, specifically on Westmere Avenue.
- How many cars were reportedly broken into?
- At least 24 cars were reportedly broken into.
- What items were stolen from the vehicles?
- Stolen items included multiple firearms (at least three, possibly four), hundreds of dollars in cash, an expensive purse, an iPad, a Nintendo Switch, clothes, electronics, a game console, a tablet, and power tools.
- Who are the arrested suspects?
- The arrested suspects are Anthony Canada and Na’im Stroman El.
- What charges do the suspects face?
- Anthony Canada and Na’im Stroman El face well over three dozen charges and are being held on $10,000 secured bonds.
- Was anyone else involved in the incident?
- A third individual is wanted in connection with the crime. Additionally, a group of juveniles was observed picking up firearms reportedly discarded by the suspects during the pursuit.
- What was the outcome of the Panthers playoff game on January 13, 2026?
- The Carolina Panthers lost their playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams with a score of 34-31.
Key Incident Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Saturday, January 13, 2026 |
| Time of Incident | Around 6:40 p.m. |
| Location | Uptown Charlotte, parking areas behind Bank of America Stadium, Westmere Avenue |
| Event Context | Carolina Panthers playoff game vs. Los Angeles Rams |
| Number of Cars Broken Into | At least 24 |
| Number of Cars with Items Stolen | Nine |
| Arrested Suspects | Anthony Canada, Na’im Stroman El |
| Charges | Well over three dozen charges |
| Bail Amount (each) | $10,000 secured bond |
| Stolen Items | Multiple firearms (at least 3-4), cash, electronics (iPad, Nintendo Switch, tablet), purse, clothes, power tools |
| Recovered Items | One firearm |
| Additional Suspects/Involved Parties | One additional suspect wanted, group of juveniles seen taking discarded firearms |
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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.
