On April 11, 2024, at approximately 1:00 a.m., Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) officers responded to a reported assault with a deadly weapon in the 1400 block of Fontana Avenue in north Charlotte. Upon arrival, they discovered 37-year-old Craig Zonta Tobias suffering from a gunshot wound; he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Tobias was the victim of a carjacking, during which his Ford pickup truck was stolen.
Family members reported that Tobias was visiting his grandmother's residence and was preparing to leave when the incident occurred. His father, Craig Bowman Sr., recounted hearing gunshots and finding his son lying in the street.
Tobias was a respected business owner and a father, known for his dedication to his family and work. His untimely death has left his family and the local community in mourning, with calls for justice and an end to senseless violence. As of the latest reports, no arrests have been made, and CMPD has not released any suspect information. The investigation remains active and ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 704-334-1600.
A visitation for Tobias was held on April 19, 2024, at Mt. Moriah Primitive Baptist Church in Charlotte, followed by a funeral service and burial at Beatties Ford Memorial Gardens.
The tragic loss of Craig Tobias has highlighted concerns about public safety in Charlotte, prompting discussions on measures to prevent such incidents and support affected families. Community members continue to seek answers and hope for a resolution to this case.
