Flames and Fear: Harris Teeter Set on Fire in Charlotte in Suspected Arson Attack, Community Demands Answers
Charlotte, NC — A normally quiet corner of northeast Charlotte erupted in chaos and uncertainty late Sunday night after a Harris Teeter grocery store located on Davis Lake Parkway was intentionally set on fire, according to officials. The blaze, which was quickly classified as an act of arson, has triggered deep concern among residents and local leaders, who are now grappling with the implications of criminal activity targeting a well-frequented community hub.
Emergency Response and Fire Containment
The Charlotte Fire Department received multiple calls shortly before midnight reporting smoke and visible flames coming from the popular grocery store, located within the Davis Lake Town Center. First responders arrived within minutes and immediately began battling the flames. Due to the store’s size and the fire’s aggressive spread, additional units were called in to assist.
Firefighters worked through the early hours of the morning to contain the blaze. Fortunately, the store was closed at the time of the incident, and no injuries to employees or civilians have been reported. However, the extent of the structural damage is still being assessed, and the store is expected to remain closed indefinitely while investigations and repairs are underway.
Intentional Act Confirmed
Authorities swiftly determined that the fire was not accidental. “Preliminary findings strongly indicate that this was an intentional act,” said Battalion Chief James Mallory during a press briefing early Monday. “We are treating this as an active arson investigation in collaboration with local law enforcement and federal agencies.”
Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is currently being reviewed, and investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward. No suspects have been publicly identified, and it remains unclear what the motive behind the attack may have been.
Community Reaction
The news of the arson has left residents in the Davis Lake and Highland Creek neighborhoods unsettled. For many, the Harris Teeter is not just a grocery store—it’s a familiar part of daily life, where families shop, neighbors meet, and employees often know customers by name.
“This is devastating,” said Cheryl Womack, a longtime customer who lives just a few blocks from the store. “This place is a staple in our community. It’s scary to think someone would intentionally do something like this.”
City Councilwoman Renee Johnson, whose district includes the affected area, also expressed concern. “This senseless act of destruction not only puts lives at risk but undermines the sense of safety and trust we work so hard to build in our communities. We will ensure that justice is pursued and that the community receives the support it needs.”
Broader Implications for Safety
The fire has reignited discussions around crime prevention and public safety in suburban areas of Charlotte. While crime in the Davis Lake area is generally considered low compared to other parts of the city, this incident has sparked fears that such acts of vandalism and arson may signal a troubling shift.
Officials are reminding the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. “We need eyes and ears on the ground,” said CMPD spokesperson Lt. Brandon Fisher. “The safety of our neighborhoods depends on the community and law enforcement working together.”
Ongoing Investigation
As of Monday afternoon, fire and police investigators continued to comb through the charred remains of the store, gathering evidence to piece together the timeline of the event. The ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) has also joined the investigation, given the fire’s severity and suspected criminal intent.
Harris Teeter corporate representatives issued a brief statement saying: “We are deeply saddened by this event and grateful that no one was injured. We are fully cooperating with investigators and will work closely with law enforcement as they determine the cause and hold those responsible accountable. In the meantime, we are doing everything we can to support our associates and customers during this time.”
What’s Next
The road to recovery may be long for both the store and the local community. In the coming days, more information is expected to emerge as investigators continue their work and surveillance reviews intensify. City officials have vowed to hold public briefings as updates become available.
Residents seeking groceries and essential supplies are being directed to nearby locations, with Harris Teeter and other local stores stepping in to accommodate displaced customers.
Anyone with information related to the fire is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or submit tips online anonymously.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided as they become available. For continuing coverage, follow updates from ABC11 and the Charlotte Fire Department.