CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A man was arrested following a drive-by shooting on Sunday, killing a 17-year-old, police said.
According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, the homicide happened outside of a home on Lynn Street near Freedom Drive on Sunday. Police were called to the area around 4 p.m.
Investigators say a person was found with a gunshot wound and they were later pronounced deceased. Police later identified the victim as 17-year-old Jayden Blackmon.
“Wrong place at the wrong time," a man called Blocc Baby, who knew the victim, said. “It’s sad. It’s so sad."
Police believe the shooting was not a random act of violence.
On Thursday, police said 18-year-old Gerry Martez Burns, Jr. was arrested in connection to the case. Burns is charged with murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill.
A neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous, due to safety concerns, believes the rise in violence has to do with a lack of care for Charlotte's young people.
“I think the kids are more easily influenced, usually there isn’t a male role model somewhere," he told WCNC Charlotte on Monday.
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles recently releasing a statement saying, "I am deeply troubled and saddened at the homicides that have been occurring in our city." She added that the city will continue to work with community partners to expand anti-violence programs.
“We don’t want to be a part of this national conversation of gun violence and unfortunately as a city we are," said Greg Jackson, founder of grassroots organization, Heal Charlotte.
Heal Charlotte has tried to help drive homicides down and open up different pathways for the youth, through after-school programs, even conversations with police.
Jackson offers advice when it comes to keep guns out of young hands.
“Please lock your car doors a lot of these guns are being stolen out of these cars," Jackson said.
This case remains under investigation. More information will be provided when it is available.
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