Charlotte, North Carolina – A 23-year-old man is facing multiple serious felony charges after police say he committed an armed robbery in Charlotte’s South End and later fired gunshots at officers during a vehicle pursuit early Friday morning. The incident ended with a crash, a brief foot chase, and the suspect’s arrest with the help of K-9 units.
According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, no officers were injured during the encounter, and no police vehicles were struck by gunfire.
Incident Overview
Police say the chain of events began in the 500 block of Summit Avenue shortly after 3:20 a.m. on February 6, when officers responded to a reported armed robbery at a business in the South End area. While searching the area, officers located a vehicle believed to be connected to the robbery.
When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the driver allegedly refused to stop and fled, triggering a police pursuit.
Timeline of Events
After the suspect vehicle fled from officers, pursuing units reported a dangerous escalation.
During the chase, officers stated they heard gunfire coming from the suspect vehicle, with shots allegedly fired in the direction of law enforcement. The pursuit continued westward until the vehicle crashed at the northern end of Morris Field Drive near Wilkinson Boulevard.
Following the crash, one suspect exited the vehicle and fled on foot.
Details From Police and Officials
Police deployed CMPD K-9 units, which assisted officers in locating and apprehending the suspect a short distance from the crash site. The individual was taken into custody without further incident.
“No officers were injured, and no police vehicles were struck by gunfire during the incident,” CMPD officials confirmed in their preliminary statement.
Authorities also noted that no officers discharged their service weapons at any point during the encounter.
Suspect Identification and Charges
The suspect was identified as Christopher Jaiquan Chisholm, 23, who was transported to the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) for questioning by detectives.
Following the interview, Chisholm was formally charged with multiple felony offenses, including:
- Attempted First-Degree Murder
- Six counts of Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer with a Firearm
- Felony Fleeing to Elude Arrest
- Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon
- Larceny of a Motor Vehicle
- Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
Due to the severity of the incident and the fact that shots were fired at officers, Homicide Detectives were called to the scene to conduct the investigation, which is standard protocol in such cases.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Suspect: Christopher Jaiquan Chisholm, 23
- Time: Shortly after 3:20 a.m., February 6
- Initial Location: 500 block of Summit Avenue, South End
- Crash Location: Morris Field Drive near Wilkinson Boulevard
- Injuries: None reported
- Officers Fired Weapons: No
- Units Involved: Patrol officers, K-9 units, Homicide Detectives
Additional Context on Public Safety
Police pursuits involving firearms present a significant risk not only to officers but also to bystanders and motorists. CMPD officials have repeatedly emphasized that suspects who flee while armed greatly increase the danger of serious injury or death during encounters with law enforcement.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity promptly and to avoid approaching individuals believed to be armed.
Conclusion
The early-morning incident highlights the dangers officers face when responding to violent crimes and the risks posed to the community when suspects flee while armed. The investigation into the armed robbery and subsequent police shooting remains ongoing as detectives continue to review evidence and statements.
If you live or work in the South End area, staying aware of your surroundings and reporting suspicious activity can help prevent similar incidents. Share your experiences in the comments below.
