Teen Fatally Shot in Late-Night Shooting at Charlotte Apartment Complex
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A 15-year-old teenager, identified only as Syllavon, was tragically killed in a shooting late Thursday night at an apartment complex on Merrick Street, near North Tryon Street in northeast Charlotte, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD).
Shooting Incident Details
At just before 11:30 p.m., CMPD received reports of gunfire at the busy apartment complex. When officers arrived, they discovered Syllavon with a gunshot wound. Despite immediate efforts by first responders and Charlotte Fire Department and paramedics, the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene, having suffered a fatal shooting.
Crime Scene and Evidence
Officers were seen conducting a thorough search of the parking lot and surrounding areas, collecting shell casings, and examining bullet damage to nearby vehicles and apartment buildings. Representatives from the CMPD Homicide Unit took charge of the investigation.
According to initial police reports, multiple shots were fired into the apartment building, striking the structure while tragically ending in the fatality of the young victim. No other injuries were reported at this time.
Investigation Ongoing
The CMPD homicide investigators are continuing a full-scale investigation, which includes:
- Interviewing witnesses and apartment occupants
- Recovering and analyzing evidence, including ballistic data
- Reviewing any available security camera footage from the complex or nearby businesses
Police have appealed to the public for any video, doorbell footage, or eyewitness accounts that might provide insight into who pulled the trigger—or what circumstances led to the shooting.
Community Response and Support
Neighbors in the complex expressed shock and sadness at the violence, especially involving someone so young.
“Gunfire in this neighborhood at night is heartbreaking conditions—this shouldn’t happen to our kids,” said one resident.
Call for Public Assistance
CMPD is urging anyone with information—no matter how small—to contact investigators. Tips can be shared anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
In Remembrance
Syllavon, just 15 years old, is the latest victim of Charlotte’s ongoing struggle with youth violence. The family is currently mourning their loss, and no details have yet been released about memorial services or funeral arrangements.
This tragic incident comes as yet another reminder of the vulnerability of young lives in our communities. Police and community leaders are once again calling on residents to be alert, speak up, and come together to prevent future tragedies.