CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Authorities in Charlotte have released new details about a violent chain of events on Thursday that left one man dead, another critically injured, and a suspect fatally shot after an intense police chase and shootout. What began as a report of gunfire quickly evolved into a multi-scene investigation involving a kidnapping, pursuit, and an officer-involved shooting that shook several neighborhoods in northwest Charlotte.
According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), the suspect has been identified as 28-year-old Joseph Andrade. Officers were first dispatched to North Hoskins Road around 4 p.m. after receiving reports of a shooting. When they arrived, police found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Both were taken to a nearby hospital, where 38-year-old Justin Westbrooks Carlton succumbed to his injuries. The second victim remains hospitalized in critical condition, police said.
A short time later, CMPD received reports that Andrade had forced a woman into a vehicle at gunpoint and fled the area. The kidnapping triggered an urgent pursuit involving multiple patrol units. As officers followed the suspect, Andrade reportedly fired multiple shots at police vehicles, striking several but injuring no officers. The chase wound through several parts of northwest Charlotte before ending near Freedom Drive and Morehead Street, where Andrade’s vehicle crashed, forcing a dramatic confrontation.
Police say Andrade then fled on foot while continuing to shoot at officers. CMPD officers returned fire, striking the suspect. He was pronounced dead at the scene, and the kidnapped woman managed to escape unharmed. CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings called the ordeal “an incredibly dangerous and fast-moving situation,” commending his officers for their composure and quick action. “Our priority was to protect lives and ensure the safe recovery of the victim,” he said during a Friday briefing.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has taken over the review of the officer-involved shooting, which is standard in such cases. CMPD’s Internal Affairs Division will also conduct a separate review to ensure all procedures were followed correctly. Police have not confirmed how many officers discharged their weapons or how many rounds were fired during the standoff. Detectives continue to investigate what may have motivated the series of violent acts, noting that Andrade may have known at least one of the victims.
By Thursday night, roads around Freedom Drive and Morehead Street remained closed as forensic teams gathered evidence. CMPD has assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community, emphasizing that all individuals involved have been identified. The investigation remains active, and anyone with witness information, dashcam video, or surveillance footage is urged to contact CMPD’s Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.