Alexander Cruz Martinez Obituary, Death – A tragic shooting in midtown Charlotte claimed the life of a 16-year-old boy on Wednesday evening, leaving a community shaken and police urging the public to help with the investigation. According to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), the incident occurred around 8 p.m. inside the parking deck of a Target store located on the 900 block of Metropolitan Avenue. Authorities later identified the victim as Alexander Cruz Martinez, a teenager whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence.

CMPD Major Stephen Fischbach provided updates through a video posted on X, explaining the sequence of events. At the time of the shooting, an off-duty CMPD officer happened to be nearby. The officer, who was monitoring his police radio, heard the call about a gunshot victim and immediately responded.

The officer quickly located Martinez inside the parking deck. The teenager had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Acting without hesitation, the officer administered first aid until MEDIC units arrived on the scene. Despite their efforts, Martinez’s injuries were too severe. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

“This is a heartbreaking case involving a young victim whose life ended far too soon,” Fischbach said in his statement. He added that CMPD is dedicating significant resources to identify the person or persons responsible and to bring them to justice.

The shooting stunned many residents, as the area around Metropolitan Avenue is a popular hub in Charlotte, known for its shops, restaurants, and apartments. The fact that the violence took place in a well-frequented location has raised concerns about public safety, particularly for families and young people.

Police have not yet released information regarding a possible motive, suspect, or whether the teenager was specifically targeted. Fischbach emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving the case, urging anyone with knowledge to step forward. He encouraged citizens to contact CMPD’s homicide unit at 704-432-8477 or leave anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.

While investigators continue piecing together what led to the shooting, the death of Alexander Cruz Martinez has already deeply affected friends, family, and the broader Charlotte community. Losing someone so young, in such a violent manner, has left many residents calling for stronger measures to curb gun violence in the city.

CMPD has responded by increasing patrols in the Midtown area as a precautionary measure and to reassure the public. Officers are also canvassing for surveillance footage and witnesses who may have seen anything unusual before or after the incident. Detectives believe that even the smallest piece of information could help move the investigation forward.

Gun violence involving teenagers has been a growing concern in Charlotte and across the country. Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly pointed out the need for both community engagement and preventive strategies to keep young people safe. The death of Martinez adds to a troubling pattern, highlighting the urgent need for solutions that go beyond policing alone.

For now, the focus remains on finding answers and providing support to the family of the victim. Community members have begun organizing small gatherings to honor Martinez’s memory and to express solidarity with his loved ones.

Authorities say updates will be shared as soon as more information becomes available. In the meantime, CMPD continues to appeal for witnesses to come forward.

“This young man deserved a chance at life,” Fischbach said. “We are asking anyone who knows something, no matter how small, to speak up. The family deserves justice, and we owe it to the victim to do everything we can.”

The shooting of Alexander Cruz Martinez is yet another painful reminder of the impact of gun violence in Charlotte. As police work to solve the case, the city mourns the loss of a teenager whose future was tragically taken away in a parking deck where no one expected such violence to unfold.