Jarele Martez Blackson, an 18-year-old male of African American ethnicity, tragically lost his life on August 5, 2020, in Charlotte, North Carolina. He was found dead from a gunshot wound to the head in a parking lot in the 6100 block of East Independence Boulevard. The incident was reported to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department by a witness who saw a young man in his late teens or early 20s who had been shot.
Blackson's death was recorded as Charlotte's 72nd homicide of 2020.
Following the investigation, CMPD identified a suspect vehicle and corroborated information about it. However, no further details about a possible suspect were immediately available. The police urged anyone with information on the shooting to come forward and assist with the investigation. Additionally, individuals could anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
In October 2020, CMPD detectives charged 22-year-old Montico Ny’ke Baskin Peoples with the murder of Jarele Blackson. Peoples was identified as the suspect after an extensive investigation, and warrants were issued for his arrest. The case highlighted the ongoing issue of gun violence in Charlotte and the efforts of law enforcement to bring justice for victims and their families.
The loss of Jarele Martez Blackson was deeply felt by his family and community. Known affectionately as "Rell-Rell" and "Rell Chapo," he was remembered for his creative spirit and the impact he had on those around him. His obituary described him as the son of Gregory and Cassandra Rhodes, who began his life's journey on August 22, 2001, in Augusta, Georgia. His passing left a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
