CHARLOTTE — Investigators are working to determine who killed 33-year-old Corey Barnard, who was shot and killed in east Charlotte Wednesday evening.
Lachelle Barnard, the victim’s mother, is searching for answers following the death of her son.
She shared with the community that Corey Barnard was a caring young man.
“I would like the community to know we lost a very caring young man,” Barnard said.
Neighbors in the area remain shaken more than 24 hours after hearing gunfire.
Preston Morgan, a resident, recounted the moments he heard the shots.
“Went inside the house, came back out and heard some shots fired,” Morgan said.
Barnard described her son as someone who easily connected with people.
“Talked and spoke to everybody he met. Anyone that saw him would remember him everywhere we went. They would remember him on vacations, on cruises or just in the neighborhood,” she explained.
Barnard said she was heartbroken and struggling to understand why his life was taken.
She also expressed concern that too many lives are being lost to street violence and believed that societal changes, particularly technology, are impacting human connections.
“When you don’t have compassion, then you don’t know what love is, so I’m seeing children being raised hard, no love, no hugs; it’s a sad reality that we’re dealing with,” Barnard stated.
She added, “It’s the technology that’s messing us up a lot, were losing our connection with nature and being natural. It’s so easy for us to separate the way we are.”
Barnard said she was determined to ensure her son’s death inspires action against violence.
“Not let his death be in vain. I do feel like there is something we can do; whatever it is, we should do it. I don’t know what to tell everybody what to do; I’m gonna do whatever I can,” Barnard expressed.
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.
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