Charlotte Health Fair Interrupted by Gunfire; Centre Reaffirms Commitment to Families

Shooting at C.W. Williams Health Fair Sparks Safety Concerns in West Charlotte

What began as a celebration of community resilience and educational readiness in West Charlotte was abruptly disrupted on 9 August, when gunshots were fired at the 11th annual Back-to-School Community Health Fair hosted by the C.W. Williams Community Health Centre on Wilkinson Boulevard. The event, which has long provided free health screenings, immunisations, and school supplies to underserved families, drew hundreds of attendees and several elected officials, including Congresswoman Alma Adams. In a public statement, she expressed relief that no one was harmed and extended gratitude to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department for their swift response. She further commended the health centre’s enduring role as a “pillar of Charlotte”, particularly for marginalised communities.

According to centre officials, the incident occurred near the end of the fair when a woman, reportedly involved in a family dispute, discharged three rounds into the air. Police arrested the suspect on charges including “going armed to the terror of the public”, noting that the shots caused widespread panic among attendees.

Despite the disruption, organisers reaffirmed their commitment to the community and expressed a willingness to support the woman’s family, while emphasising the need to uphold safety protocols. CEO Debra Weeks acknowledged pride in the event’s turnout and the dedication of staff and volunteers, yet voiced disappointment over the shooting, describing it as an isolated incident. She added that the centre was saddened by the distress caused to attendees, vendors, and staff, but remained grateful that no injuries occurred. The board and leadership team praised the courage and composure of those present and reiterated thanks to law enforcement for their prompt intervention and arrest of the suspect. The centre is dedicated to serving Charlotte's families with care, dignity, and resilience.

Editor’s Note:

The disruption at Charlotte’s Back-to-School Health Fair is a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities that persist even in spaces dedicated to care and community. That an event designed to support underserved families, through health services, school supplies, and solidarity, was marred by gunfire is deeply troubling. While no injuries were reported, the emotional toll on attendees, staff, and volunteers cannot be understated. The swift response from law enforcement and the composed actions of the C.W. Williams Community Health Centre team deserve recognition. Their continued commitment to public service, even in the face of adversity, reflects the strength of community institutions. Moving forward, such events must be safeguarded with thoughtful security planning, without compromising their welcoming spirit. S

koobuzz believes the incident at Charlotte’s Back-to-School Health Fair underscores the fact that even spaces built for care and community remain vulnerable to disruption. It is deeply concerning that an event meant to support underserved families with health services, school supplies, and solidarity was overshadowed by gunfire.