Man Shot Dead Near Charlotte Rail Station in Midnight Tragedy as Suspect Faces Murder and Robbery Charges

Suspect Arrested After Late-Night Shooting Turns Fatal

In a tragic turn of events in southwest Charlotte, a 39-year-old man lost his life after being shot late Saturday night near a light rail stop. Authorities have arrested a 29-year-old man in connection with the incident and charged him with murder and robbery involving a dangerous weapon.

Victim Identified, Phone Tracked After Attack

The victim, identified as Stephen Jerome Carroll II, was discovered shortly before midnight with a gunshot wound on the 6200 block of South Boulevard. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Sunday.

Carroll’s girlfriend played a crucial role in the investigation by using a tracking app to follow the victim’s phone after the incident. According to court documents, the phone’s movements matched the path last seen being taken by the suspect, Steven Downing Jr.

Dispute at Bar Reportedly Preceded Shooting

Investigators revealed that both Carroll and Downing were residing at the same hotel. On the night of the incident, Carroll had been on a call with his girlfriend, during which she reportedly overheard a heated argument between the two men. She also informed the police that the pair had been ejected from a bar earlier that night due to Downing’s behavior.

After the phone call ended, repeated attempts to contact Carroll failed. Hours later, police found him wounded and unresponsive.

Arrest Made, Surveillance Footage Confirms Suspect’s Identity

When law enforcement apprehended Downing, he was reportedly dressed in the same clothes captured in surveillance footage near the scene. He has since been charged and is being held without bond. Carroll’s family has been informed of the arrest.

Ongoing Investigation Underway

Authorities have confirmed that the investigation remains active. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence and piece together the timeline that led to this violent encounter. Police urge anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in bringing full clarity to the case.

This tragic incident adds to growing concerns around safety in the area and highlights the unpredictable nature of interpersonal conflicts that escalate into deadly violence.