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Man charged with murder after woman’s body discovered at east Charlotte apartments, CMPD says

CHARLOTTE — A man has been arrested and charged in connection with a homicide that occurred at an east Charlotte apartment complex.

On Oct. 23 at around 11:15 a.m., a woman was found shot and killed on Snow Lane at the Heritage Park Apartments. Police said officers were called for a welfare check when they found someone who had been shot.

MEDIC said Ahylea Willard, 32, died at the scene. Officers confirmed Willard was found behind a dumpster at the apartments.

During the investigation, CMPD said Willard’s car was taken during the incident.

On Nov. 28, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said 27-year-old Tyquawon Parker was arrested in Guilford County.

Parker has been charged with murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and possession of a firearm by a felon, according to police.

Channel 9′s Erika Jackson spoke to Willard’s mother, Mary McMasters, who said she’s never heard Parker’s name or seen his face before.

McMasters said her daughter was having dinner with someone in Charlotte just hours before she died. She told Jackson she was happy to know someone is behind bars.

“It’s been a relief to know that they actually have arrested someone for the murder of my daughter,” McMasters said. “It has been such a weight off of my shoulders.”

McMasters stressed she still doesn’t have full closure. She said Willard’s black Mercedes is still missing, and the fight for answers continues.

The investigation into this case is ongoing. Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a homicide unit detective.

(WATCH BELOW: Mother wants justice after daughter found dead outside apartments)