Charlotte’s Fourth of July celebrations took a chaotic turn Friday night as Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police (CMPD) arrested 15 individuals—seven adults and eight juveniles—during large, unsanctioned gatherings near Romare Bearden Park in uptown Charlotte. Despite no official city events planned in the area, crowds gathered along South Church Street, leading to multiple disturbances and ultimately police intervention.
CMPD officers responded to the situation with a heightened presence and made several arrests tied to illegal weapons, drugs, fireworks, and violence.
Adults Facing Serious Charges
The adults arrested range in age from 18 to 42 and face a range of serious charges:
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Khalil Delaney (18): Charged with carrying a concealed weapon, felony marijuana possession, intent to sell and deliver, and resisting a public officer.
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Don-Nell Greene (20): Faces multiple charges including concealed weapon possession, felony marijuana possession, intent to distribute, possession of fireworks and drug paraphernalia, and resisting arrest.
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Russell Matthews Jr. (20): Charged with concealed weapon possession, marijuana possession, and drug paraphernalia.
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Jadarius Miller (26): Faces marijuana possession and gun charges.
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Tommie Glinsey (26): Arrested for shooting into an occupied vehicle, city-limit firearm discharge, concealed carry, felony conspiracy, and assault with a deadly weapon.
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Kamron Mason (31): Facing similar charges as Glinsey, along with being a felon in possession of a firearm and having a stolen firearm.
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Carell Scipio (42): Charged with marijuana possession and resisting arrest.
Juvenile Arrests Raise Safety Concerns
Eight juveniles, aged 14 to 17, were also detained. Charges included:
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Violating the Youth Protection Ordinance
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Possession of a handgun by a minor
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Possession of a stolen firearm
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Carrying a concealed weapon
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Possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia
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Disorderly conduct
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Resisting arrest
Weapons and Injuries
During the arrests, CMPD seized a total of 10 firearms, including some stolen weapons. The situation escalated to the point where two police officers were injured. One officer sustained serious, but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to the hospital.
Community Impact
Though unofficial, the uptown gatherings were heavily attended, drawing concern from residents and city officials about public safety, youth involvement in crime, and the rising presence of illegal weapons in crowded events. CMPD has not indicated whether further charges or arrests are expected, but the investigation is ongoing.
This incident underscores growing safety concerns during unsanctioned public gatherings, particularly on high-profile holidays like the Fourth of July.
