On December 24, 2023, at approximately 11 a.m., Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) officers responded to an assault with a deadly weapon call in the 1600 block of Flagler Lane in northwest Charlotte. Upon arrival, they discovered 40-year-old Howard Maurice Higgins inside a vehicle, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Paramedics pronounced him deceased at the scene.
The incident occurred in the Oakdale South neighborhood, a residential area that had experienced a previous shooting earlier in the year. In March 2023, a 13-year-old boy was injured when a house on the same block was sprayed with bullets, though there is no confirmed connection between the two events.
Higgins, known as "Moe" to his family and friends, was a father of three and worked as a party planner. His family expressed deep grief and confusion over his death, stating they are unaware of any reason someone would target him. His sister, Ieisha Higgins, mentioned that he was just returning home when someone approached his car and shot him. The family has made public pleas for information to help solve the case.
As of now, CMPD has not released information regarding any suspects or arrests related to Higgins' murder. The investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact the Homicide Unit directly or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
