Suspect Apprehended After AK-47 Drive-By Double Homicide in Charlotte
In Charlotte, North Carolina, a horrifying daylight drive-by shooting claimed the lives of 23-year-old Caleb Johnson and 32-year-old Prince Tribble. The tragic double homicide occurred on the afternoon of November 2, 2025, along Oakwood Road, when the two men were standing outside a residence, talking near the front yard.
According to investigators, a vehicle approached the home, and without warning, gunfire erupted from an AK-47-style rifle. Both men were struck multiple times before they could react. Neighbors reported hearing a burst of rapid shots, followed by the sound of screeching tires as the vehicle fled the scene. When first responders arrived, they found Johnson and Tribble critically injured. Despite immediate medical attention, both men passed at the scene.
Witnesses described chaos and disbelief in the normally quiet residential area. The broad daylight attack shocked the community and left residents fearful and devastated.
The Victims
Caleb Johnson, 23, was known among family and friends as an outgoing and optimistic young man. He had dreams of advancing his career and was described as someone who brought light to those around him. Friends recall his kindness, humor, and ability to make people smile.
Prince Tribble, 32, had a more complicated past. Records show he had previous run-ins with the law, including charges related to robbery and illegal firearm possession. However, according to relatives, he had been trying to rebuild his life and find stability before the shooting occurred. His family shared that he loved his children deeply and wanted to make better choices for them.
Both men, regardless of background, are now remembered as victims of senseless violence—lives cut short before they could find peace or purpose.
The Investigation and Arrest
Following the deadly incident, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) launched an extensive investigation. Officers canvassed the neighborhood, gathering shell casings and reviewing nearby surveillance footage. Detectives worked around the clock, interviewing witnesses and collecting forensic evidence from the scene.
Within days, authorities identified a suspect believed to be connected not only to this double homicide but also to another recent killing in Monroe, North Carolina. The arrest brought a measure of relief to the grieving community. The suspect’s name has not been publicly released, but officials confirmed that he faces multiple counts of first-degree murder, as well as firearm and vehicle-related charges.
Police believe the shooter targeted the victims intentionally, though the exact motive remains unclear. The weapon used—a high-powered AK-47 rifle—indicates a deliberate and planned act of violence. Investigators continue to examine whether the shooting was related to gang activity, a personal dispute, or retaliation for a previous conflict.
Community Response
The shocking nature of the shooting—carried out in broad daylight in a residential neighborhood—has left the community on edge. Residents of Oakwood Road have since organized small neighborhood meetings and vigils to honor the lives of Caleb Johnson and Prince Tribble.
Local community leaders have called for stronger efforts to curb gun violence, emphasizing the need for collaboration between police and residents. Some neighbors have spoken publicly about the trauma of witnessing the shooting and the ongoing fear of retaliation.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department also urged the public to continue sharing information that could strengthen the case. Detectives believe that additional witnesses may hold key details about the suspect’s movements before and after the shooting.
Reflection
The deaths of Caleb Johnson and Prince Tribble have become a painful reminder of how quickly violence can shatter lives. The use of an assault-style weapon in a densely populated area underscored the continuing crisis of gun violence that has touched so many Charlotte families.
For now, the families of both victims are left to grieve and seek justice. Friends describe them as two men whose paths crossed tragically in a moment of chaos and destruction.
As court proceedings move forward, the Charlotte community continues to call for peace, accountability, and change. While arrests bring some closure, the loss of two young men has left a lasting wound—a reminder that even in familiar neighborhoods, tragedy can arrive in an instant.
