Sad;Just Now, Duke University Football Player Arrested and Charged with First-Degree Murder in Fatal Charlotte Shooting

 

 

Charlotte, NC – A former Duke University football player has been arrested and charged in connection with the fatal shooting of a woman in Charlotte. Authorities identified the suspect as 29-year-old Jalon Alexander, who previously played as a defensive back for the Duke Blue Devils.

 

According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), officers responded to a report of gunfire late Saturday night in the city’s South End neighborhood. Upon arrival, they found Mariah Coleman, 27, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics attempted life-saving measures, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

Investigators quickly identified Alexander as a suspect in the case. Authorities have not yet disclosed the nature of his relationship with Coleman, but sources indicate the two may have known each other. After an initial search, officers located Alexander on Sunday morning and took him into custody without incident.

He has been charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. He is currently being held at the Mecklenburg County Jail without bond.

 

Investigation and Background

 

Authorities have not revealed a possible motive for the killing, but court records show Alexander has a history of prior offenses. In recent years, he faced multiple charges related to assault and illegal firearm possession.

 

Alexander was once a promising athlete at Duke University, playing for the football team from 2013 to 2016. After his college career, he did not make it to the NFL but remained involved in football-related activities.

 

Police are still investigating the events leading up to the shooting, and anyone with additional information is urged to contact CMPD.

 

Community Reaction

 

The killing has shocked the Charlotte community, with friends and family mourning Coleman’s tragic death. Loved ones described her as a kind and ambitious young woman with a bright future ahead.

 

Duke University has not yet commented on Alexander’s arrest, but former teammates and classmates have expressed their disbelief over the situation.

 

As the legal process unfolds, Alexander is expected to make his first court appearance later this week. If convicted of first-degree murder, he could face life in prison without parole.