North Charlotte homicide investigation focuses on Alma Court shooting, with suspect arrested and charges filed
What investigators say happened
A homicide investigation is underway in north Charlotte after a fatal shooting on Alma Court in the Metro Division, in an area just off Statesville Avenue and north of Uptown.
Police reported that officers were dispatched shortly before 4 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, to an assault with a deadly weapon call in the 2200 block of Alma Court. When officers arrived, they located a male victim suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Officers attempted lifesaving measures, and MEDIC pronounced the victim dead at the scene.
Detectives assigned to the homicide investigation and crime scene personnel responded to process the area and collect evidence. Officials said additional support resources, including victim services and fire and EMS partners, were also on scene as the initial investigation unfolded.
Victim identified; arrest announced two days later
On Saturday, March 7, 2026, the victim was identified as Luis Fernando Hernandez, 27. Police said the victim’s family was notified.
On Sunday, March 8, 2026, detectives announced an arrest. Police said their Violent Criminal Apprehension Team located and arrested J.B. James Jones, 37, after investigators identified a suspect and obtained warrants. Jones was transported to the Law Enforcement Center for an interview and then transferred to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.
- Charge: Murder
- Charge: Possession of a firearm by a felon
Unanswered questions and the investigative process
Authorities have not released information on a possible motive or whether the victim and suspect knew each other. Police have described the case as active and ongoing, indicating that additional details may be released later through official channels as the investigation develops.
Early response conditions also shaped the investigation. Police said that when officers arrived, there were no immediate witnesses available, and a K-9 was used in efforts to track a suspect in the area.
The department has asked anyone with information to contact its tips line and speak directly with a homicide detective, noting that tips can also be submitted anonymously through the region’s established tip-reporting channels.
What comes next
With an arrest made, the case will proceed through the criminal justice process while detectives continue to develop evidence, interview witnesses, and complete forensic and investigative follow-up. As standard in homicide cases, investigators may continue working the case after charges are filed to support prosecution and address any remaining factual gaps.