CHARLOTTE — Curtis Massey, 47, died following a confrontation with police officers at a gas station on LaSalle Street last Friday.
Police reported that Massey fled from officers and displayed a firearm, prompting an officer to shoot after sensing a deadly threat.
Authorities stated that a weapon was recovered from the scene. Following the incident, friends and family gathered for a candlelight vigil on the street where Curtis grew up to honor his memory and demand transparency surrounding his death.
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Phyllis Massey, the victim’s mother, did not witness the shooting but stated she is convinced her son did not pose a threat to officers. “He did not try to shoot the police, and I will take that to my grave,” Massey said.
She also expressed skepticism toward the department’s handling of the situation. “I don’t have no trust none because they are gonna be right,” Phyllis said.
Curtis was a father of three who was well loved and respected by those around him. His cousin, Jada Lineberger, remembered him as a dedicated family member.
“He was a loving father, a loving husband. He had family that loved him; he didn’t deserve this,” Lineberger said.
Family members and local residents expressed frustration regarding the varying accounts of the incident.
Naomi Sims, a family friend, noted the community’s distress over the conflicting information. “It’s very sad, and it’s very frustrating. And I’m somewhat angry because of so many different stories that are coming out,” Sims said.
Kass Otley, a community activist, also voiced caution regarding potential video evidence. “We’ve seen a billion videos. And I hate to sound like that, but until I’ve seen it. I don’t know what it’s gonna show,” Otley said.
The family has reviewed the initial autopsy report and plans to hire an independent medical examiner to perform a second autopsy. In addition, the family is in the process of retaining legal counsel.
The Police Department is moving to release body camera footage of the shooting. According to Phyllis, officials plan to show the video to the family in two or three days before releasing it publicly.