On October 29, 2023, at approximately 3 a.m., Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) officers responded to a call regarding an assault with a deadly weapon in the 5000 block of Acorn Forest Lane in north Charlotte. Upon arrival, they discovered 19-year-old Lawahon Dwight Hutchinson with a fatal gunshot wound; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The initial investigation revealed that the residence had been fired upon multiple times while occupants were inside.
CMPD's Homicide Unit and Crime Scene Search responded to process the scene and collect evidence. Representatives from CMPD’s Operations Command, Victim Services, MEDIC, and the Charlotte Fire Department also assisted.
After an extensive investigation, detectives identified 18-year-old Eric Dion Caldwell as a suspect in the case. In the early morning hours of January 3, 2024, CMPD's Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT) arrested Caldwell. He was charged with murder and discharging a firearm into occupied property. Following an interview with detectives, Caldwell was transferred to the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.
The victim's next of kin have been notified of the arrest. CMPD continues to investigate the case and urges anyone with additional information to contact the Homicide Unit directly at 704-432-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or via their website.
