CMPD investigates fatal shooting in gas station parking lot

A 54-year-old man was shot and killed early Wednesday at a gas station in northwest Charlotte.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police were called to the 3800 block of Brookshire Boulevard just before 12:30 a.m. The shooting occurred at the Raceway gas station on Brookshire near Interstate 85, reported WBTV, the Observer’s news partner.

CMPD identified the victim as Bennie Edward Bennett Jr.

Police had asked for the public’s help in locating a vehicle in connection with the shooting. They said the vehicle is a burgundy or maroon four-door auto with a blue front left quarter panel and a “doughnut” spare on the front left tire.

It was last seen on Brookshire Boulevard heading toward I-85. Shortly before noon, police said they found the vehicle.

At the parking lot, officers found Bennett lying on the ground after being shot. He was pronounced dead by paramedics.

The shooting remains under investigation, though police said early information suggests the victim and suspect were involved in an altercation before the shooting.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 704-432-TIPS(8477) to speak with a homicide detective. Information also can be given to Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or at http://charlottecrimestoppers.com.

Staff writer April Bethea contributed.

This story was originally published December 23, 2015 at 7:23 AM with the headline "CMPD investigates fatal shooting in gas station parking lot."