Family of Charlotte teen shooting victim wants to see suspects tried as adults

CHARLOTTE — Two weeks after 17-year-old Damien Gonzalez’s death in northwest Charlotte, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police recently arrested and charged two teens.

Gonzalez’s grandfather, Ron Christenbury, said the arrests are one step to closer to justice for his grandson.

The double shooting happened between the playground and the tennis courts at Fred Alexander Park at about 7 p.m. on Nov. 15.

“It’s hard to believe even though we know the facts and all,” Christenbury said.

Gonzalez and a friend were both shot. Gonzalez’s friend is still in the hospital.

“He’s in pretty bad shape. He’s still got a bullet lodged in his head and all that,” Christenbury said of the friend.

Two juveniles were arrested and charged with the murder of Damien Gonzalez. One suspect was in court on Thursday.

The juveniles were also charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon, conspiracy to commit murder, conspiracy to commit robbery and attempted murder. Because they are under 18, their names will not be released.

Family and friends have been visiting a memorial for Gonzalez since his death.

Gonzalez left behind a son who is barley six months old.

Gonzalez’s grandfather said he wants to see the teens tried as adults.

“If they’re going to act like men, then they need to be charged like men,” Christenbury said.

But more than anything, Christenbury wants the suspects to stay in jail with no bond.

“We don’t want them back out on the street, you know?” Christenbury said. “Something has to stop somewhere before somebody else’s kid gets shot or … because I don’t wish this on anybody. No family.”

(WATCH BELOW: Homicide investigation at Fred Alexander Park in northwest Charlotte)

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