Jeremy Robert Whitted, a 34-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on March 18, 2020, in Charlotte, NC. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning at a Days Inn motel on East Woodlawn Road. According to reports, a disturbance was reported in a room at the motel, prompting a security guard to call the police. Jeremy, who was experiencing shortness of breath, was being treated by paramedics in the back of an ambulance when the suspect, Prentice Bess, 32, returned
with a gun and shot Jeremy multiple times. The paramedics on the scene were unharmed, but Jeremy succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Prentice Bess was immediately taken into custody and charged with murder. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but it was a shocking and brutal act of violence that left the community in mourning. Jeremy was known for his advocacy for LGBT issues, and his death was a significant loss to the community he passionately supported.
The investigation into Jeremy's death revealed that the suspect had initially left the scene after being denied entry into the ambulance. However, he returned a few minutes later with a firearm and carried out the fatal shooting. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and screams, describing the scene as chaotic and terrifying. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department urged anyone with information about the case to come forward and assist with the investigation.
In the aftermath of the incident, there were no further arrests or suspects identified in connection with Jeremy's death. The case was a stark reminder of the senseless violence that can occur and the devastating impact it has on families and communities. Jeremy's legacy as an advocate for LGBT rights continues to be remembered and honored by those who knew him and the broader community.
