Two 16-year-olds are now facing murder charges in a deadly April shooting near University City, after what police describe as a months-long investigation. Charlotte officers yesterday arrested Kha‑Zai McIllwain and Devonterival Miller, who are charged with murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and conspiracy. The victim, 38‑year‑old Virgil Leroy Hardeman Jr., was shot on April 9 and later died at a hospital. The arrests were carried out by the Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Police Department’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team.
In a post on X, the Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Police Department said its Violent Criminal Apprehension Team located and arrested McIllwain and Miller on Wednesday. According to the department, both juveniles were charged in connection with the fatal assault, and the case is still active. Detectives are continuing to investigate and asked anyone with information to contact them.
What Happened on April 9
Officers were called to the Microtel parking lot in the 100 block of East McCullough Drive shortly before 8:30 p.m. on April 9, where they found a man suffering from gunshot wounds, according to WSOC. MEDIC took the victim to a hospital with life‑threatening injuries, and he was pronounced dead the following day.
Investigation and How to Help
The April case was first outlined in a Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Police Department news release that identified Hardeman as the victim and named Detective Moore as the lead investigator, per the Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Police Department. That release lists CMPD’s tip line at 704‑432‑8477 and Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704‑334‑1600 for people who want to share information anonymously.
Local Context
Hoodline previously covered the early hours of the investigation and the reaction in the surrounding neighborhood. Its report, Homicide probe rattles University City, highlighted the initial police response at the scene and concerns among nearby residents.
With the two juveniles now charged, the investigation remains active, and court proceedings will determine what happens next. CMPD has said it will release additional details as they become available and again urged anyone with information to call the department’s tip line or contact Crime Stoppers.
