CMPD: Black Male Wanted In East Charlotte Arson, Hate Crime Case

CHARLOTTE, NC — CMPD says they are looking for a black male caught on surveillance after a racist note was found inside a burned business in east Charlotte.

The fire happened around 10pm Thursday at the Central Market business on Albemarle at Reddman Road. Charlotte Fire was able to contain the flames to the front door where a rock had also been thrown through the window, according to reports.

Investigators say a note was found near the door that said the suspect did not want any refugee business owners and that they would torture the owner if they did not leave and go back to where they came from. The note was then signed “White America.”

Video surveillance from the scene was recovered, which showed a black male suspect who is around 5’8”, 200 lbs, and has a short afro and a goatee.  He was also seen wearing a grey hoodie under a black coat, light jeans and black shoes.

Anyone with information on this crime or suspect is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.