17-Year-Old West Charlotte High Student Fatally Shot at Halloween Party
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA — A 17-year-old girl has been identified as the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred during a Halloween party in Charlotte early Saturday morning. Police confirmed the victim, Amari Cooper, was a student at West Charlotte High School.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said officers and emergency responders were called to a home on Old Plank Road shortly after 12:26 a.m. on November 1, following reports of gunfire during a large house party.
Fight at Party Ends in Tragic Shooting
Witnesses told investigators that a fight broke out at the Halloween gathering before shots were fired. Partygoers began running for safety when bullets started flying, and Cooper was struck by what police believe to be a stray bullet.
Emergency medical personnel found the teen in critical condition when they arrived at the scene. She was rushed to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
“This was supposed to be a night of fun for these young people,” one community member said. “Now a family is grieving the loss of a daughter because of senseless violence.”
Connection to Earlier School Fight Under Review
Authorities are also reviewing whether the shooting is connected to an earlier large fight at West Charlotte High School on Halloween day. Video circulating on social media shows a police officer body-slamming a student in the school’s bus parking lot, sparking community concern.
At this time, investigators say there is no indication that the school altercation and the party shooting are related, but they are exploring all possibilities.
Community Mourns West Charlotte High Student
Amari Cooper’s death marks yet another tragedy for the West Charlotte High School community, which has lost multiple students and alumni to violence this year.
“She was a bright, loving young girl,” said one classmate. “It’s heartbreaking to know she won’t be coming back to school with us on Monday.”
Grief counselors are expected to be available at the school next week to support students and staff.
Investigation Ongoing
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have not yet announced any arrests or identified suspects in the case. Detectives are urging anyone with information or video footage from the Halloween party to contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Residents can also submit anonymous tips through the P3 Tips app. A reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.
Police are asking anyone who attended the party or witnessed the shooting to come forward as the investigation continues.
“This was a child,” one CMPD spokesperson said. “Someone knows who pulled that trigger, and we need them to do the right thing.”
For updates on this developing story and other local reports, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
