Paula Henson, a 47-year-old woman from Charlotte, North Carolina, tragically lost her life on December 20, 2021. Paula was the victim of a violent shooting that occurred at her home on Long Grass Court in Charlotte. Emergency personnel were called to the scene around 2 p.m., where they found Paula with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of officers and medics, Paula was pronounced dead at Atrium Main Hospital due to her life-threatening injuries.
The suspect in Paula's murder
was identified as 49-year-old Earnest Ali Santiago. Following the shooting, Santiago led police on a high-speed chase that began in Charlotte and ended in York County, South Carolina. The pursuit involved the assistance of CMPD's helicopter and K-9 units. Santiago was eventually apprehended without further incident after attempting to flee on foot. He was taken into custody by York County deputies and is currently awaiting extradition to Mecklenburg County, where he faces a first-degree murder charge.
The investigation into Paula Henson's death revealed that she and Santiago knew each other. Detectives believe that the motive behind the shooting was personal. The case remains active and ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather information and evidence related to the incident. Santiago's arrest and subsequent charges mark a significant step in seeking justice for Paula Henson and her family.
