CHARLOTTE, N.C. — WCNC Charlotte has chosen to use this mugshot because of the nature of the crime.
A missing elderly man who was reported missing in Charlotte nearly a week ago was found dead this week, and a suspect is accused of killing him.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said Fred Willie Dunlap, 79, went missing on Friday and had not been seen since. Dunlap was last seen at his home on Bobby Lane.
Dunlap's family told police that he required several medications and he does not have them with him. The family was concerned for his well-being.
In an update on Thursday, July 25, CMPD said Fred Dunlap was found dead along Bobby Lane on Wednesday. He appeared to have suffered from some kind of trauma. The investigation continued, and a suspect was identified: 21-year-old Desmond Elijah Dunlap.
Police said Desmond Dunlap was arrested without incident Thursday morning. He is now charged with murder, financial transaction card theft, and obtaining property by false pretense.
Fred Dunlap's family has been notified of his death and of Desmond Dunlap's arrest. Desmond Dunlap's first court appearance is set for 10 a.m. on Friday.
The investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call (704) 432-TIPS to talk with a homicide detective directly. Tips can also be shared with Crime Stoppers online or by calling (704) 334-1600.
Note: WCNC instituted a 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.
If your loved one was impacted by this incident, WCNC Charlotte hopes to make this process less painful with our More Than A Number initiative. With your help, we want to share who your loved one was with our viewers in North Carolina and South Carolina. When you're ready, fill out the form below or send us photos, memories and other details about them to desk@wcnc.com.
Flashpoint is a weekly in-depth look at politics in Charlotte, North Carolina, South Carolina, and how it impacts everyone with host Ben Thompson. Listen to the podcast weekly.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || Google Podcasts || iHeart
WCNC Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with news that impacts you from the team at WCNC Charlotte.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeart
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.