Damien Alonzo Mackins II, a 19-year-old African American male, was found dead on February 2, 2018, in northeast Charlotte, North Carolina. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting a body in a wooded area off Newell Baptist Church Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered Damien suffering from an apparent gunshot wound.
His death was ruled a homicide, and an investigation was launched immediately.
The incident occurred near a church and a school, causing concern among local parents and residents. Despite the proximity to these community institutions, no immediate suspects were identified, and no arrests were made in the initial stages of the investigation. The CMPD urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in solving the case.
As the investigation progressed, two suspects were eventually charged in connection with Damien's murder. Mykel Washington, 19, and Andre Kashawn Clark, 19, were both charged with first-degree murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon. The charges indicated that the motive behind the crime might have been robbery, although further details about the circumstances leading to Damien's death were not disclosed.
Damien's death left a significant impact on the Charlotte community, highlighting the ongoing issues of gun violence and safety in the area. The case remains a poignant reminder of the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such tragedies in the future.
