Charlotte, August 22, 2025
News Summary
A second suspect, Dontae Harrison, has been arrested in relation to the murder of Demarcus Gerald in Charlotte. The arrest follows a shooting incident that occurred during a drug deal. Witnesses have provided critical evidence, including surveillance footage. Another suspect, Cedric Cotten, was previously arrested. Authorities are seeking more information as the investigation continues.
Charlotte
Second Suspect Arrested in 2024 Charlotte Murder Case
A second suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of Demarcus Gerald in Charlotte, which took place in December 2024. On August 18, 2025, FBI agents apprehended 27-year-old Dontae Harrison in Atlanta, Georgia. He faces charges of murder related to the fatal shooting of Gerald, who was 25 years old at the time of his death.
The incident occurred on December 7, 2024, along West Trade Street, outside a Bojangles restaurant. Emergency services responded to a 911 call at approximately 6:45 p.m., discovering Gerald shot in the head. He was transported to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center but succumbed to his injuries the following day.
Investigators have gathered crucial evidence from the scene, including surveillance footage that captured two vehicles—a black Porsche Panamera and a gold Honda Accord—shortly before the shooting transpired. Witnesses reported that Gerald was allegedly involved in a drug deal for Percocet at the time of the conflict. It is noted that Gerald fired shots at the suspects during the confrontation, which led to one of the suspects, identified only as Suspect #2, returning fire and fatally wounding him. While Harrison has been arrested, he has not been publicly identified as either Suspect #2 or Suspect #3 in the ongoing legal proceedings.
Another individual, 27-year-old Cedric Cotten, was arrested on December 13, 2024, and currently faces multiple charges relating to the murder. These charges include robbery with a dangerous weapon, conspiracy to commit robbery, and murder. Cotten had been out on bond since March 2025, and his case is presently progressing through the court system.
Gerald’s next of kin have been informed about Harrison’s arrest, but a current mugshot for Harrison is unavailable because he has not yet been booked into the Mecklenburg County Detention Center. As the investigation continues, police have not provided additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the events that led to Gerald’s death.
Authorities urge anyone with further information about the case to come forward, as the investigation remains active.
FAQs
What happened to Demarcus Gerald?
Demarcus Gerald was shot and killed on December 7, 2024, during an alleged drug deal in Charlotte.
Who are the suspects involved in Demarcus Gerald’s murder?
The two suspects identified are Dontae Harrison and Cedric Cotten. Harrison was arrested on August 18, 2025, while Cotten was arrested earlier, on December 13, 2024.
What charges do the suspects face?
Dontae Harrison faces murder charges, while Cedric Cotten is charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon, conspiracy to commit robbery, and murder.
Has Gerald’s family been notified about the arrests?
Yes, Demarcus Gerald’s next of kin have been notified of Harrison’s arrest.
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes, the investigation remains active, and police are seeking additional information from the public.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | December 7, 2024 |
| Location | West Trade Street, Charlotte |
| Victim | Demarcus Gerald (25 years old) |
| Suspect Arrested | Dontae Harrison (27 years old) |
| Other Suspect | Cedric Cotten (27 years old) |
| Charges Against Harrison | Murder |
| Charges Against Cotten | Robbery with a dangerous weapon, conspiracy to commit robbery, and murder |
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: December 2024 Homicide Arrest in Charlotte
- Wikipedia: Charlotte, North Carolina
- QC News: FBI Arrest in Atlanta
- Google Search: Charlotte homicide
- ABC11: Charlotte Police Officer Shot
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlotte
- WSOC TV: Charlotte Murder Suspect Arrested
- Google Scholar: Charlotte crime
- WBTV: Suspect Dead, Officers Hurt in Northeast Charlotte Shooting
- Google News: Charlotte crime
Author: HERE Charlotte
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