Missing CMS student found dead at movie theater parking lot in Ballantyne

CHARLOTTE — An 18-year-old Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools student who was reported missing out of Matthews was found dead Thursday afternoon in south Charlotte.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department responded to the death investigation in the parking lot of a movie theater around 3 p.m. Thursday.

Chopper 9 Skyzoom flew over the scene outside of the theater near Elm Lane in the Ballantyne area of Charlotte and spotted multiple officers. Investigators had a section of the north parking lot blocked by crime scene tape, and one car appeared to be under investigation.

CMPD confirmed a woman was found dead in the parking lot. Police said the woman was “initially reported missing to the Matthews Police Department.”

The Matthews Police Department confirmed that the woman is 18-year-old Olivia Bruce, who was reported missing earlier this week. CMPD said there’s “no evidence of foul play at this time.”

Providence High School sent a letter to families to say there will be resources available for them to cope with the sudden death.

Letter from principal:

“I am deeply saddened to inform you that one of our students, 18-year-old Olivia Kathleen Bruce, a senior here at our school, has died. We are praying for her family and friends as they grieve this loss of life.

“Death can be difficult for us to understand, especially when it is sudden.We may feel a variety of emotions: shock, sadness, or confusion. What is most important is that we care for and support each other. The Crisis Response Team will be here to respond to the emotional needs of all students and available to assist with grief counseling.

“If your family has experienced a death or similar loss recently, Olivia’s death may bring up strong feelings. While this may be a normal experience, we want to provide assistance if needed. Please make your student’s teacher or our counselors aware if there is any additional information the school should be aware of so we can provide the support your student needs. This is a difficult time and can be stressful and confusing. We are here to offer care and support.”

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