Metro Division Death Investigation: Victim Identified After 16 Years

Published on August 22, 2025

Charlotte, N.C. – (Friday, Aug. 22, 2025) – On Thursday, Aug. 21, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) Homicide Cold Case Detectives positively identified a man in connection with a death investigation that began 16 years ago. The individual has been identified as Robert Stinton, 67.

On Feb. 15, 2009, CMPD patrol officers responded to the 3300 block of Idaho Drive where officers located a deceased male inside of an abandoned building. Due to decomposition, the Medical Examiner’s Office listed the cause and manner of death as undetermined.

There were no signs of foul play observed on the scene and no additional information to suggest foul play. Detectives worked diligently to identify the male over the years but were unsuccessful.

CMPD Homicide Cold Case Detectives adopted the case and began working to identify the male. Cold Case detectives utilized their advanced training on new technology that uses DNA and were able to generate positive leads.

Detectives received assistance from the North Carolina State Crime Laboratory and the CMPD Crime Lab in this case.

On Thursday, Aug. 21, detectives were able to identify the male as Robert Stinton and notified his family.

The investigation into this case is active and ongoing. As additional information develops, it will be released by the CMPD's Public Affairs Office. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-8477 (TIPS) and speak directly to a Homicide Unit detective. The public can also leave information anonymously by contacting 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: 20090215-1536-00.

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