Charlotte, August 15, 2025
News Summary
A 39-year-old man has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon after a violent altercation outside a bar in Uptown Charlotte. Matthew Terry King returned armed with a machete and brass knuckles following a previous argument, resulting in severe injuries to one victim. Witnesses played a crucial role in subduing him until police arrived.
Charlotte
Matthew Terry King, a 39-year-old man from Indian Trail, North Carolina, has been charged with multiple offenses, including attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon, following a violent incident that took place outside a bar in Uptown Charlotte early Saturday morning. The attack occurred around 2 a.m. on August 9, near the establishment located at 300 South Brevard Street.
The events leading to King’s arrest began when he was removed from the bar after an escalating verbal argument transformed into a physical confrontation with other patrons. Approximately 30 minutes later, King returned to the scene, armed with an 18-inch machete and brass knuckles.
Upon his return, King approached Kurt Lee Casey, one of the victims, from behind and initiated the assault by brandishing the brass knuckles and asking, “Remember me?” He then swung the machete in an attempt to strike Casey on the head. Casey tried to defend himself by raising his left hand, resulting in a severe laceration that necessitated surgical attention.
An additional victim, Jeffrey Vangordon, was also injured during the incident, suffering a minor cut on his thigh while attempting to help subdue King. Witnesses present at the scene quickly intervened, assisting in disarming King and restraining him until law enforcement arrived.
When police officers arrived at approximately 2:17 a.m., they found King covered in blood, with the machete and brass knuckles located on a nearby table. He was subsequently taken into custody and transported to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries sustained during the altercation before being booked into Mecklenburg County Jail.
King is currently being held without bond and is scheduled to appear in court at the end of August. According to police reports, multiple witnesses corroborated the accounts of the victims regarding the attack, providing crucial information that led to the charges against King.
Context and Background
Violence related to bar altercations is not uncommon, especially in areas with high foot traffic and nightlife. Incidents such as this raise concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of bar management in handling disputes. King’s actions and the severe injury inflicted on the victim underscore the potential dangers associated with conflicts that escalate into violence.
This incident highlights the importance of witnesses in assisting law enforcement during violent encounters. Community involvement was essential in subduing King until police arrived, showcasing how bystanders can make a significant difference in dangerous situations.
Charges Against Matthew King
- Attempted first-degree murder
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
Victims’ Injuries
- Kurt Lee Casey: Severe laceration requiring surgery
- Jeffrey Vangordon: Minor cut on thigh
Witness Assistance
- Witnesses disarmed King.
- Witnesses restrained King until police arrival.
- Multiple accounts corroborating victims’ stories.
Key Timeline of Events
- 2:00 a.m. – Initial altercation at the bar.
- 2:30 a.m. – King returns armed with a machete and brass knuckles.
- 2:17 a.m. – Police arrive after being notified of the attack.
- Post-arrest – King taken to hospital, then booked into jail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Matthew King facing?
He is charged with attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon.
What time did the incident occur?
The violent incident occurred around 2 a.m. on August 9.
What injuries did the victims sustain?
Kurt Lee Casey suffered a severe laceration requiring surgery, while Jeffrey Vangordon sustained a minor cut on his thigh.
What was the response of witnesses at the scene?
Witnesses intervened, disarmed King, and restrained him until police arrived.
When is Matthew King’s next court appearance?
King is due back in court at the end of August.
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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.
