12-year-old charged in shooting death of 16-year-old, police say

CHARLOTTE — A 12-year-old child was charged in connection to a deadly shooting of a 16-year-old, police said.

The shooting happened Friday, Sept. 13 shortly after 7 p.m. in the 8500 block of Burnt Umber Drive.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police arrived on scene and located the victim, 16-year-old Jaiden Harris, with a gunshot wound.

According to MEDIC, Harris died at the scene.

Detectives were able to identify the suspect as a 12-year-old child who was charged with involuntary manslaughter, according to CMPD.

The 12-year-old was released into the custody of their parents.

Michael Sawitsky told Channel 9 that he was driving home Friday evening when he noticed all police cars and crime scene tape.

“I noticed the presence because I couldn’t go down the burnt road like I normally do,” Sawitsky explained. Saitsky. “I was curious what was going on, you know, because it’s a quiet neighborhood.”

He said the details of this case were heartbreaking.

“That’s sad for a young child getting their hand on a weapon,” Sawitsky elaborated. My heart does go out to the grieving family and friends, and you know, loved ones you know, to that tragic incident.”

A GoFundMe has been set up by the Harris family to assist with funeral costs. You can donate here.

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