In a heartbreaking turn of events, 17-year-old Amari Cooper, an honor student and young mother from Charlotte, North Carolina, was tragically shot and killed early Saturday morning, October 26, 2025. The senseless act of violence has left her family, friends, and the community reeling as they try to make sense of her untimely death.
What Happened
Around 12:30 a.m. on October 26, 2025, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police responded to reports of a shooting on Old Plank Road in northwest Charlotte. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Amari Cooper suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Amari was pronounced dead, leaving the community in shock.
Amari had been attending a Halloween party earlier that evening. While the details of the incident remain unclear, investigators believe the shooting may have been random. However, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the crime and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Who Was Amari Cooper / Background of the Case
Amari Cooper was a beloved 17-year-old senior at West Charlotte High School. She was not only an honor student but also a young mother, raising a toddler who now tragically faces life without her mother. Amari was known for her infectious smile, her love of dancing, and her passion for doing hair. Friends and family describe her as a positive, vibrant young woman with a bright future ahead of her.
Her family, devastated by the loss, now faces an unimaginable reality. In addition to the grief of losing a daughter, Amari’s mother must also navigate the pain of raising her granddaughter without her daughter by her side.
Leondra Garrett, a family friend, spoke to WBTV, describing Amari as “always positive, always on the honor roll” and someone who loved to make people smile. Garrett said, “Somebody made a split decision, causing a lifetime of somebody else’s hurt and pain.”
Public and Social Media Reactions
The tragic death of Amari Cooper has sent waves of grief throughout Charlotte. Her story is being shared widely on social media, where classmates, friends, and community members have poured out their condolences, remembering Amari’s bright spirit and the positive impact she had on everyone around her. Many have expressed anger at the senseless violence that took her life, while others are rallying to support her family during this difficult time.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover funeral expenses and support Amari’s family. The page, titled Remembering Amari Cooper, has already gained significant attention, with donations pouring in from people wanting to help Amari’s loved ones during this heartbreaking time. You can contribute to the GoFundMe campaign here.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police are continuing their investigation into the shooting. They are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation. The police have also encouraged people to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 with anonymous tips.
Amari’s death raises questions about whether this was truly a random act or if there may be more to the story. Authorities are urging the community to stay vigilant and to share any relevant information that could help bring justice to Amari and her family.
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This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
