Demario Ericson Roddey, a 25-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on May 7, 2018, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Demario, affectionately known as "Skinny," was a kind-hearted and intelligent young man who cherished his friends and family. He was baptized at an early age and remained a devout believer throughout his life. Demario's untimely death occurred at Carolina Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
The circumstances surrounding Demario's death were deeply
troubling. On the afternoon of May 7, 2018, an argument between Demario and a 16-year-old suspect, Tamerrian Anthony, escalated into a deadly confrontation. The incident took place along Feldbank Drive near Beatties Ford Road in north Charlotte. Witnesses reported that the argument led to Anthony shooting Demario at point-blank range. Demario was found lying in a front yard with a gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following the shooting, Tamerrian Anthony was apprehended by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. He was charged with murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon. The police did not consider the shooting to be a random act, as they believed the argument between Demario and Anthony was the catalyst for the tragic event. Anthony was taken to CMPD headquarters for an interview and subsequently charged with the aforementioned crimes.
Demario's death was part of a disturbing trend of violence involving teenagers in the Charlotte area. In the month leading up to his death, several other teens were charged with murder in unrelated incidents. The community was left grappling with the senseless loss of a young life and the broader implications of youth violence.
Demario's family and friends mourned his passing and remembered him as a bright and loving individual who brought joy to those around him. His funeral services were held at Alexander Funeral Home, and he was laid to rest at Beatties Ford Memorial Gardens.
