North Carolina — Manuel De Jesus Martinez’s life came to a sudden and tragic end in Charlotte, leaving those who knew him to grieve a loss that came far too soon. The 33-year-old was fatally shot early Sunday morning, September 6, 2026, in Uptown Charlotte, prompting a homicide investigation by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.

According to WSOC-TV, CMPD identified Martinez as the victim later Sunday afternoon. Officers were called to the 700 block of West Trade Street shortly before 4 a.m. after receiving a report connected to an assault with a deadly weapon. When officers arrived, they found Martinez suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. MEDIC responded, but Martinez was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The shooting occurred in the Gateway Village area, a busy part of Uptown Charlotte located close to the Johnson & Wales University Charlotte campus. The incident immediately drew attention from students, residents, workers and others who regularly spend time in the area.

For those who knew Martinez, the news represents a devastating loss of a life that ended at only 33 years old. While investigators continue working to establish the circumstances surrounding his death, his loved ones are left to process the sudden absence of someone who was part of their lives and community.

Police have not publicly established a motive for the shooting. Investigators are working to determine what happened in the moments leading up to the fatal gunfire and who was responsible. Because the incident occurred in an area with businesses and other nearby properties, investigators may be able to use surveillance footage and information from witnesses to help reconstruct what happened.

Authorities are also asking members of the public who may have witnessed the shooting or have information about the events leading to Martinez’s death to come forward. Detectives are expected to continue gathering evidence and speaking with potential witnesses as the investigation progresses.

The tragedy has also affected people connected to Johnson & Wales University. Students interviewed after the shooting described being shocked by the violence occurring so close to campus. The incident served as a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of violence, particularly in an area that is normally active with students, residents and visitors.

At the time of the latest reporting, authorities had not publicly announced an arrest in connection with Martinez’s death, and additional details about the circumstances remained under investigation. Information about his personal history, family, employment and funeral arrangements had also not been widely released through verified public sources.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on determining exactly what happened and identifying the person responsible for Martinez’s death. For his family and friends, however, the investigation cannot change the reality that a loved one was taken from them unexpectedly.

Manuel De Jesus Martinez will be remembered by those closest to him for the life he lived and the relationships he built during his 33 years. His death has left loved ones facing grief while a community waits for answers and investigators continue their search for justice.