Case Update: Homicide Investigation in the Central Division

Published on May 30, 2026

Charlotte, N.C. – (Saturday, May 30, 2026) – The victim in this case has been identified as James Mathew Rodriguez, 44.

The victim’s next of kin has been notified of his death.

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 Lewis 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: 2026-0522-1809-01.

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Charlotte, N.C. – (Tuesday, May 26, 2026) – Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s (CMPD) Homicide Unit are conducting a homicide investigation in the 900 block of North Poplar Street in the Central Division.

On Friday, May 22, at approximately 6:44 p.m., officers responded to a check for welfare call for service in the 900 block of North Poplar Street. Upon arrival, officers located a victim lying unresponsive. At the time, this incident was classified as a death investigation.

Homicide Unit detectives responded to the scene to conduct an investigation, and Crime Scene Search (CCS) responded to process the scene and collect physical evidence. Representatives from CMPD’s Operations Command, Victim Services and CFD responded to assist.

On Tuesday, May 26, the autopsy report determined the manner of death was homicide.

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