CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A 17-year-old was killed in a shooting in west Charlotte on Saturday, police said.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police were called to a shooting near the intersection of West Boulevard and Leake Street around noon Saturday. When officers arrived, they found a person suffering from a gunshot wound inside a car that crashed into a tree. The victim was identified as 17-year-old Andy Hernandez. He died at the scene.
On Wednesday, June 8, CMPD announced two suspects were arrested in the death of Hernandez. The first suspect was a 15-year-old juvenile, arrested on Tuesday, June 7. The next day, 19-year-old Brenice Gibson was arrested at Harding University High School. Both are now charged with murder, along with attempted robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery.
Those who knew and loved Hernandez gathered at Camp Greene Park on Wednesday evening to celebrate his memory and also hope for change.
“Andy was one of those kids I felt could make a difference so it’s very untimely and sad to see his passing," Harding University High School teacher Jeff Begeal said.
“He just had such a big heart and we’re gonna miss him so much," cousin Keylin Lopez said. “I think we’re more angry than anything. This could have been prevented I think. Our gun laws our atrocious and just the fact that a 15-year-old [was] allowed to have guns or any access to guns is ridiculous.”
The investigation is ongoing. Any person with information about this shooting is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Witnesses may also call 704-432-TIPS to speak directly with CMPD homicide detectives investigating the case.
Funeral arrangements for Hernandez are set for Thursday at James Funeral Home in Huntersville.
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