CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have made an arrest in a 1989 cold case. Johnny Evans Jr., 56, has been charged in connection to the 32-year-old burglary and rape case.
The incident happened early on Aug. 27, 1989. Police said a suspect broke into a home on Simmons Street, then sexually assaulted the resident and ransacked the home. The then-19-year-old female called 911 and was taken to the hospital where DNA evidence was collected.
Police said the DNA was first tested in 1990, but Evans wasn't identified as a suspect until a recent DNA match. After the DNA match, warrants were issued for his arrest on first-degree burglary and two counts of first-degree rape.
On Oct. 18, 2021, CMPD located and arrested him without incident. Evans was interviewed by detectives, then transferred to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office where he was served with the three outstanding warrants.
This investigaiton remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call 911, or leave the information anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or visiting the website at Charlotte Mecklenburg Crime Stoppers.
Note: WCNC instituted a new policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.