A fatal shooting at the Ascent at Mallard Creek Apartments in northwest Charlotte on Wednesday afternoon has left the community reeling. The incident unfolded on Strive Street, near Odell School Road and Interstate 485, around 3:30 p.m., when a woman was fatally shot in the complex’s parking lot.
Residents reported hearing a series of gunshots, initially mistaking the first for a car backfiring. Charles Armstrong, a nearby resident, shared, “At first, it sounded like a car backfiring—just one loud bang. Then it was a rapid succession of loud noises.” Moments later, he saw the victim on the ground and immediately called 911.
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The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department identified the victim as 33-year-old Jameisha Wilkes. Witnesses described a man dressed in black firing the shots and fleeing the scene through a breezeway. Despite the quick response by emergency services, Wilkes was pronounced dead at the scene.
By Thursday, authorities announced the arrest of 32-year-old Dasean Maddox in connection with the murder. Maddox faces charges of first-degree murder and robbery and is being held at the Mecklenburg County Jail.
Court documents reveal that Maddox admitted to a family member that he had driven to Wilkes’ apartment, shot her, and destroyed her phone after taking it. The shooting is believed to have been motivated by a personal conflict, with Maddox reportedly telling the family member that he had impregnated Wilkes.
The daylight violence has left residents of the apartment complex deeply unsettled. “I don’t feel safe,” Armstrong expressed. “I think everyone feels that way right now, especially with it happening in broad daylight.”
The investigation remains active as police continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
The tragic death of Jameisha Wilkes adds to Charlotte’s rising number of homicides, highlighting the ongoing need for enhanced community safety efforts.