CHARLOTTE — A 68-year-old man in a wheelchair was shot and killed in broad daylight outside a Food Lion on North Graham Street in Charlotte over the weekend.
The victim, identified as James Martindale, was caught in gunfire between two other people on Saturday night.
Police have arrested Joshua Hasty, 44, and charged him with involuntary manslaughter and possession of a firearm by a felon.
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“He didn’t bother nobody, nobody, he just stayed in his wheelchair, I feel bad, I really feel bad,” said Sheng Chu, who owns a nearby Chinese restaurant.
The shooting occurred near the entrance of the Food Lion, where Martindale was sitting in his wheelchair. According to police, an argument escalated into gunfire, resulting in Martindale being shot multiple times.
Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing a black Mitsubishi SUV speed out of the parking lot shortly after the incident.
“A black Mitsubishi SUV cut thru here, and went out that way, that’s all I saw,” Chu recounted.
Martindale had been sitting outside the store for about two weeks, and Chu believes he was homeless and hoping for some help. “He’s an old guy, I just feel bad,” Chu added.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is continuing its investigation and is searching for more suspects who were involved in the incident.
The tragic incident has left the local community in shock, as residents and business owners grapple with the senseless loss of life.
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue to search for additional suspects.
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.
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