Jaleek Mitchell Fatally Shot at Romare Bearden Park in Uptown Charlotte

Tragedy struck uptown Charlotte on Saturday night as 17-year-old Jaleek Mitchell was shot and killed at Romare Bearden Park. The incident unfolded just before 10 p.m. on November 2, drawing a large police response from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) to the popular city park.

CMPD officers responded to reports of gunfire and arrived to find Mitchell suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency personnel quickly transported him to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Police promptly cordoned off a section of Romare Bearden Park and parts of South Church Street to investigate the scene, with multiple officers working to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses.

This tragic shooting is the latest in a series of violent incidents at Romare Bearden Park. The park, which has become a focal point for CMPD’s efforts to curb crime, was the site of a July 4th altercation and a New Year’s Eve shooting that left five people injured. In response, CMPD implemented “Operation TRIO,” a targeted initiative aimed at reducing crime in high-profile areas, including Romare Bearden Park.

Speaking earlier this year, CMPD Major Bret Balamucki acknowledged the department’s focus on improving safety at the park. “We constantly battle the perception of safety,” he said. “Even one incident can change how people feel when they come here with family or friends.” CMPD has since been working to increase police presence and monitor criminal activity in the area as part of its efforts to make public spaces safer.

The death of Jaleek Mitchell has renewed calls for enhanced security measures and community cooperation. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. The CMPD Homicide Unit can be reached at 704-432-TIPS, and anonymous tips may also be provided through Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

As police continue to investigate, this incident highlights the challenges the city faces in ensuring that its parks remain safe and inviting for families and visitors.