One Dead, Multiple Injured in Mass Shooting Near Charlotte’s First Ward Park — Police Still Searching for Gunman
CHARLOTTE, NC — Sunday, July 13, 2025 — A night of summer celebration in the heart of Uptown Charlotte turned into panic and tragedy early Sunday morning when a hail of gunfire left one person dead and multiple others wounded near First Ward Park. The shooting, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, has shaken the city and prompted a large-scale investigation by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police.
According to CMPD, officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots shortly after 2:30 a.m. near North College Street and East 7th Street, an area densely packed with clubs, bars, and late-night crowds. Upon arrival, police found several victims suffering from gunshot wounds. One person was pronounced dead at the scene, while several others were transported to local hospitals in varying conditions.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, pending family notification. Authorities have not released information about the total number of victims or the nature of their injuries, but sources close to the investigation suggest at least three people were shot during the chaotic incident.
“This was a violent and senseless act that occurred in a very public place during a busy time,” a CMPD spokesperson stated at a press briefing Sunday morning. “We are asking anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who may have cellphone video or surveillance footage to come forward.”
Witnesses described the scene as “pure panic,” with crowds scrambling for cover as the shots rang out. “It was just mayhem. One second we were dancing, and the next, people were screaming and running in every direction,” said a bartender who works at a nearby lounge.
No suspects have been arrested, and police have not released a description of the shooter. Investigators remained on the scene for hours Sunday morning, collecting shell casings, reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses, and interviewing witnesses.
The area surrounding First Ward Park was temporarily shut down as police worked the scene. The park, located just steps from Charlotte’s nightlife epicenter, has long been a gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
This shooting is the latest in a troubling trend of gun violence across the region this summer. Charlotte officials have promised increased patrols and a coordinated response to keep nightlife areas safe.
“We need answers. We need justice. And we need our community to help us make sure this doesn’t happen again,” the police spokesperson added.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.