Tragedy in charlotte: west charlotte high school students Amari cooper identified as shooting

Tragedy in charlotte: west charlotte high school students Amari cooper identified as shooting 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the Charlotte community after police confirmed that Amari Cooper, a student at West Charlotte High School, was shot and killed early Saturday morning in northwest Charlotte.

According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), officers responded to reports of gunfire in a residential area shortly after midnight. When they arrived, they discovered a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts by first responders, Cooper was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have not yet released full details about what led to the shooting, and the investigation remains active. Detectives are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

News of Cooper’s death has sent shockwaves through the West Charlotte High School community. Teachers, classmates, and neighbors remember him as a bright and kind young man with a contagious smile and a promising future ahead. Many took to social media to share heartfelt tributes, expressing grief, disbelief, and calls for an end to youth violence in the city.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools released a statement expressing condolences to Amari’s family and friends, emphasizing that grief counselors would be available on campus to support students and staff in the coming days.

Community leaders and local advocates have once again called attention to the ongoing issue of gun violence affecting Charlotte’s youth. Several vigils and gatherings are being planned to honor Amari’s life and to stand together against senseless violence.

As police continue their investigation, loved ones and classmates are left mourning a young life cut far too short. Amari Cooper’s name now joins a growing list of promising young people whose futures were stolen by gun violence — a painful reminder of the urgent need for peace, community support, and change in Charlotte.

Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact CMPD’s Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.