1 charged with murder after man found shot in south Charlotte

CHARLOTTE — A man has been charged with murder after police found someone shot to death while responding to a disabled car.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department was called on July 8 for a disabled car on Rea Road between Interstate 485 and Piper Glen Drive. There, they found the body of 36-year-old Derrick Byas.

He had been shot, police said.

The victim’s brother said Derrick Byas was a military veteran who was respectful and full of joy.

“My brother was smart,” said Dwan Byas, the victim’s borther. “He could have went to any college that he wanted to, but he chose to go and serve his country.”

Dwan Byas said he doesn’t know why his brother was there.

“I just don’t know, especially at that time in the morning,” Dwan Byas said. “That’s a red flag, itself.”

Dwan Byas said it was emotional after news of the arrest.

“Because how the crime looked on the news, you know, I was thinking [I’d] probably never find out,” he said.

Dwan Byas said he wants to know why his brother was killed.

“We definitely want answers,” he said. “We want justice for him.”

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Neighbors said they were grateful to hear there was an arrest.

“I’m grateful because it just assures that I’m more safe now,” said neighbor Kathryn Wilson.

Family members said the victim’s funeral was held on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, CMPD said they had charged a suspect in the case. They said 41-year-old Eric Watson was found and arrested in South Carolina with help from state investigators and the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office.

Watson was charged with murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon.

It’s unclear exactly what led up to the homicide.

As the investigation continues, police asked anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

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