Death Investigation in the University City Division

Published on January 24, 2026

Case Update: Death Investigation in the University City Division

Charlotte, N.C. – (Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026) – The victim in this case has been identified as Serenity Tate, 23.

As a result of this continued investigation, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s (CMPD) Homicide Detectives identified Demontrez Breelove, 26, as a suspect in this case. Breelove was interviewed by Homicide Detectives at the Law Enforcement Center (LEC). At the conclusion of the interview, Breelove was transported to the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office and is charged with:

Murder

The victim’s next of kin has been notified of her death and this arrest.

The investigation into this case is active and ongoing. As additional information develops, it will be released by the CMPD's Public Affairs Division. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-8477 (TIPS) and speak directly to a Homicide Unit detective. Detective Kennedy is the lead detective assigned to this case. The public can also leave information anonymously by calling Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600, using the Charlotte Crime Stoppers P3 Tips Mobile App or by visiting the Charlotte Crime Stoppers website. For additional information about this case, please refer to the report: 20260124-1324-00.

Death Investigation in the University City Division

Charlotte, N.C. – (Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026) – Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s (CMPD) Homicide Unit are conducting a death investigation in the 14000 block of Whistling Teal Drive in the University City Division.

On Saturday, Jan. 24 shortly before 1:30 p.m., officers were notified that a female victim arrived at a local hospital with a life-threatening injury. The victim later succumbed to her injuries.

Homicide Unit detectives responded to the scene to conduct an investigation. Crime Scene Search responded to process the scene and collect physical evidence.