CMPD used surveillance video to track suspect in killing outside bank branch
Surveillance footage from a Charlotte Bank of American branch showed a man getting out of a Dodge Charger wearing a black face covering on Friday, walking over to a woman outside on the sidewalk, and shooting her twice in the back, according to court records filed in Mecklenburg.
The shooter walked back to his vehicle and left. The records provide new details in the killing of Ina Michelle Lang, 50, just after 10:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the bank on Callabridge Court.
Sam’on Andrew Smith, 22, was charged with first-degree murder and was being held without bond.
His father told police his son struggled with mental health issues and owned guns, according to court records.
A police affidavit filed in court did not say why police believe Smith shot Lang.
Police found Lang lying on her back in front of the bank, the affidavit said. Witnesses told police they all heard two gunshots and saw a person get into the Charger to leave , the affidavit said. One of the witnesses called police after seeing Lang on the ground.
Police matched the vehicle to Smith’s address on Quail Street in west Charlotte, the affidavit said. Investigators spoke with Smith’s parents at the home, where his father confirmed a still image from surveillance footage was his son. Smith’s mother confirmed his clothes matched the suspect’s clothing in the footage.
Police found firearms and ammunition that matched the caliber of ammunition at the scene during a warrant search of Smith’s home, the affidavit said.
Smith was arrested at his home and waived his Miranda rights, police said. He told police he was driving the Charger, was at Bank of America, that he was the person getting in and out of the vehicle, and there was a woman in the parking lot, the affidavit said.
Smith was due for a virtual court appearance on Monday morning.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
