Data shows Metro Division seeing highest homicide rate in Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Channel 9 reported Wednesday that the number of homicides in Charlotte this year has tripled compared to the same time last year.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Metro Division has seen the most killings, according to police data.

[Click here to see a map of CMPD’s divisions]

"It's just really sad how people are taking lives and tearing up families for no reason," said the Rev. Irma Gardner, of Cosmopolitan Church.

[33 homicides in 93 days: CMPD share city's 2019 crime stats]

Gardner and Will Adams of Team Trublue, a community nonprofit organization, have been leading the neighborhood charge against violence for seven years.

"We push this message every day," Adams said.

They push the message by walking through neighborhoods and talking to residents.

"These kids need to get away from these guns, put the guns down and learn how to hug somebody and tell somebody, you love them every day or this is what's going to continue to happen," Adams said.

Charlotte's most recent homicide occurred near the church. Santa Acevedo, 71, and her husband were both shot. Acevedo died.

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There have been eight killings in the Metro Division this year. There were two at the same time in 2018.

In total, there have been 34 homicides across the city.

"We were actually down, and in just the last few weeks, we've seen a spike in violent crime," CMPD Capt. J.D. Thomas said.

Graham said solutions begin with the community.

"I just don't feel like we’re doing enough,” Gardner said. “I really don't".

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