CHARLOTTE, N.C. — One suspect in a deadly drive-by shooting that took the life of a 3-year-old boy made his first court appearance Monday.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said 21-year-old Jacob Lanier is charged with the murder of 3-year-old Asiah Figueroa.
Last week, CMPD said Lanier and other suspects opened fire into Figueroa's home, killing him and hurting his 4-year-old sister.
Lanier has been charged with murder, eight counts of attempted murder, nine counts of shooting into an occupied dwelling, and conspiracy to commit murder.
His mother, who appeared visibly shaken in court, told WCNC Charlotte's Richard DeVayne she believes her son was not involved in the shooting.
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Lanier has been provided a court-appointed attorney.
Police have also arrested 21-year-old Qua'Tonio Stephens Friday in connection to the shooting on charges of accessory after the fact to murder, felony flee to elude, seven counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and three counts of shooting into an occupied dwelling. He is accused of taking "possession of the murder weapon attempting to keep" it from law enforcement, according to an arrest warrant obtained by WCNC Charlotte.
The Charlotte Mecklenburg County Police Department is continuing to look for other suspects connected to the shooting.
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.
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