Charlotte woke up Monday to a tragedy few residents saw coming. In the early hours, someone opened fire inside the underground garage of Hazel SouthPark Apartments on Barclay Downs Drive. By the time paramedics arrived, 45-year-old Dwanneich Hammonds had already suffered mortal wounds. Efforts to save her life failed, and now her death is under investigation as a homicide.
Police say officers were dispatched just before 7 a.m. after a 911 call reporting an assault with a deadly weapon. When they entered the parking garage, they found Hammonds lying wounded. She was rushed to a nearby hospital by MEDIC, but despite life-saving efforts, she died soon thereafter.
Homicide detectives have since taken the lead. As of Tuesday, they have released no leads on motive or suspects. No one has been arrested yet. Investigators are canvassing the scene, gathering forensic evidence, interviewing neighbors, and reviewing surveillance footage in hopes of piecing together what led to this violent act.
Residents of the Hazel SouthPark complex were shaken. Some described the neighborhood as normally peaceful, secure, even quiet. Hearing gunfire before dawn startled many. One tenant said they heard commotion around 7 a.m. and rushed to windows to see what was happening.
A message sent to residents emphasized that management believes there is no ongoing threat to the community. But for many, that reassurance feels hollow. One long-time resident questioned whether additional security measures—more cameras, stricter entry controls, maybe on-site personnel—are overdue in an area many viewed as safe.
Neighbors said the incident feels especially unsettling given the timing and location: early morning in the very heart of Charlotte’s SouthPark district. The Hazel SouthPark complex sits just steps away from SouthPark Mall, a hub of commerce and foot traffic. That proximity makes the violence even more jarring.
As the investigation moves forward, police are urging anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward. Tips can be given to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Meanwhile, the community is left grappling with sorrow, questions, and the desire for justice for Dwanneich Hammonds.