Charlotte, N.C. – (Friday, June 12, 2026) – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) arrested a suspect in the Blue Line light rail incident that occurred at approximately 10 p.m. on June 7, 2026.
Officers were made aware of a video circulating online showing a heated exchange on the light rail and immediately began an investigation. No 9‑1‑1 calls were made during the incident. CMPD officers and detectives reviewed available video footage on social media as well as security footage obtained from the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) and were able to positively identify the suspect and obtain warrants for his arrest.
On June 11, at approximately 10 p.m., a CMPD officer working off-duty security on the CATS Blue Line located the suspect on a Blue Line platform. Derek Lamont Hutchinson, 36, was apprehended with assistance from Central Division officers.
A knife was seized during the arrest.
Hutchinson was transferred to the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office and is charged with the following:
- Going Armed to the Terror of the People
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon
- Disorderly Conduct
- Felony Possession of a Schedule I Controlled Substance
- Possession of Marijuana
- City/Town Violation
Hutchinson is currently being held under a $40,000 secured bond.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department encourages the public to report any activity that appears unusual or potentially unsafe by calling 9-1-1. Early reporting allows officers to respond quickly, gather accurate information, and take appropriate action before a situation escalates. By remaining attentive and contacting 9‑1‑1 when something feels out of place, residents play an essential role in supporting public safety and helping CMPD protect the community.
Individuals who prefer to provide information anonymously may do so through Charlotte Crime Stoppers. Charlotte Crime Stoppers offers a confidential reporting option, and tipsters are not required to disclose their identity. Eligible tips may receive rewards of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest or the recovery of weapons, narcotics or stolen property. Tips that assist in solving a homicide may qualify for rewards up to $5,000. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 704‑334‑1600, visiting CharlotteCrimeStoppers.com or using the P3 mobile app.
For additional information on this case, please refer to case: 20260609-1052-01.
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