Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have begun a death investigation following the discovery of a body in the Southwest Charlotte area on Thursday morning. According to WBTV, the investigation kicked off at approximately 9 a.m. near 7026 Nations Ford Road, in proximity to both EE Waddell High School and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Virtual High School. While the details surrounding the cause of dead have not been disclosed, the department's homicide unit has been engaged to investigate the case.
Meanwhile, WCNC Charlotte reports that the victim was discovered along Nations Ford Road and was later pronounced dead at the hospital, with the victim being found unresponsive close to Nations Ford Elementary School. CMS spokesperson stated that no schools were placed on lockdown amid the investigation, redirecting inquiries to CMPD. A crime scene was established, with police tape observed around a playground near the school, though its connection to the death is still unconfirmed.
In a related incident, the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office has taken Richard Barber into custody, charging him with concealment of a death, as reported by WSOCTV. A welfare check at a residence on Springdale Drive led investigators to the discovery of a deceased woman, believed to have been dead for several days. Barber, who also resided at the home, did not report the deceased to authorities.
Authorities are calling for public assistance in both cases. Anyone with information regarding the Charlotte investigation is encouraged to call Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or reach out directly to homicide detectives at 704-432-TIPS. Details are still unfolding and updates will be provided as an investigation continues in both the Charlotte and Catawba County cases.
