CMPD releases video, photos of suspects in the killing of Scott Brooks
After nearly a month of investigating the murder of Scott Allen Brooks, the co-owner of Charlotte’s beloved Brooks’ Sandwich House, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police on Wednesday released surveillance video and images of two suspects.
The reward for information leading to an arrest, which was initially $5,000, has been raised to $21,000 thanks to a $10,000 contribution from the Federal Bureau of Investigation as well an extra $6,000 given by local organizations, police said.
The surveillance video footage and photos show a person who appears to be wearing a hood and gloves while carrying a gun. Police said in December that they are looking for two male suspects and believe the individuals were attempting to rob Brooks.
Brooks was shot and killed around 5 a.m. on Dec. 9 while he was preparing to open his restaurant.
Police said they were called to the fatal shooting on North Brevard Street in the NoDa neighborhood and found Brooks.
CMPD Lt. Bryan Crum said surveillance video showed that the suspects ran away from the nearby light rail station toward Davidson Street.
“We believe this was a planned robbery,” Crum said. “They certainly had some knowledge.”
Police have been following leads, he said, but so far haven’t had information that’s helped officers make an arrest. Crum also said that any information no matter how small can be helpful to the police.
Family members of Brooks also attended the press conference held on Wednesday and thanked the community for the continued support.
“It’s not easy. He’s my twin brother,” said David Brooks. “I just hope this little bit of evidence and what we’re doing today is going to help find and convict someone.”
Scott Brooks, 61, co-owned the restaurant with David. The restaurant was originally founded in 1973 by their father, Calvin “C.T.” Brooks Jr. Over the years, Brooks’ Sandwich House became as celebrated for its place in the community as for its famous chili that drew clientele from across the city.
A GoFundMe campaign, started in December, has continued to draw donations totaling over $40,000 from over 700 donors. The website said the money will go toward funeral expenses and college funds for Brooks’ son.
Police ask that anyone with information about the shooting call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or 704-432-8477 to speak directly to a detective.
This story was originally published January 8, 2020 at 12:17 PM.
