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 a report of a shooting just after midnight, around 12:26 a.m., in the 1600 block of Old Plank Road. When officers and MEDIC personnel arrived at the scene, they discovered a female victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound.
Emergency responders immediately provided medical care before transporting the victim to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving efforts by doctors and trauma staff, Amari Cooper was later pronounced dead. CMPD has since confirmed that the victim was a student enrolled at West Charlotte High School, a detail that has left classmates, teachers, and the wider community heartbroken.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of Amari Cooper has deeply affected the West Charlotte High School community. Grief counselors have been made available to students and staff as they process the sudden loss of one of their own. Principal [Name] released a statement expressing sympathy and support for Amari’s family, saying:
“We are devastated by the loss of one of our students, Amari Cooper. She was a bright, kind, and promising young woman who was loved by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this unimaginable time.”
Parents and students gathered outside the school Saturday afternoon, leaving flowers, balloons, and handwritten notes at the entrance in memory of Amari. Many described her as “outgoing,” “caring,” and “full of life.” Friends shared stories on social media about her kindness and her dreams of pursuing a career after graduation.
“She didn’t deserve this,” one friend posted. “Amari had so much ahead of her — we just can’t believe she’s gone.”
Investigation Underway
Detectives with CMPD’s Homicide Unit are continuing to investigate the shooting. No arrests have been made at this time, and police have not released any details regarding possible suspects or motives. Officials are urging anyone who may have information to come forward to help bring justice for Amari and her loved ones.
CMPD emphasized that this incident is not related to another recent event involving a different West Charlotte High School student and a police officer on Friday. Authorities clarified that the two situations are separate and unrelated.
Call for Justice and Peace
The tragic death of Amari Cooper has renewed conversations within the Charlotte community about youth violence and the need for increased safety measures for young people. Local leaders and community advocates are calling for unity and proactive solutions to help prevent future tragedies.
Charlotte City Council member [Name] shared on social media:
“Our hearts are with Amari Cooper’s family, friends, and the West Charlotte community. This is yet another devastating reminder that we must continue to address the violence affecting our city’s youth. We cannot allow another life to be taken too soon.”
How to Help
Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Homicide Unit at 704-432-TIPS, or call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Tips can be shared anonymously, and information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.
Remembering Amari Cooper
The death of Amari Cooper, just a high school student with her entire future ahead of her, has left a deep scar on all who knew her. She was more than a name in a headline — she was a daughter, a friend, a student, and a beloved member of her community.
Her family and friends are asking for privacy as they grieve and have requested that the community keep them in their prayers. A candlelight vigil is being planned near West Charlotte High School in the coming days to honor Amari’s life and legacy.
As the community mourns, one message echoes across Charlotte — a call for peace, for justice, and for an end to the senseless violence claiming young lives far too soon.
Rest in Peace, Amari Cooper — Gone Too Soon, Never Forgotten.
