CHARLOTTE, NC. (THECOUNT) — David Simpson was arrested early Wednesday and charged with first-degree murder after authorities say he fatally shot one man and wounded another outside his Charlotte apartment complex less than 90 minutes after being released from the Mecklenburg County Jail, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police.
According to reports, Simpson was released from the Mecklenburg County Jail at approximately 12:21 a.m. Wednesday after posting bond on a charge of failing to appear in court. Court records indicate the underlying case involved a previous charge of possession of a weapon while a prisoner.
Police said officers responded to a shooting at approximately 1:45 a.m. outside the apartment complex where Simpson lives. One victim was pronounced dead, while a second victim suffered injuries and survived. Authorities have not yet publicly identified either victim.
Investigators arrested Simpson in connection with the shooting. He is charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to investigators, the violence stemmed from a dispute over a parking space. Police had reportedly responded to the apartment complex twice earlier that evening before the fatal shooting.
Authorities allege surveillance video shows Simpson entering the apartment building after the dispute and returning carrying what appeared to be a black bag containing a heavy object. Investigators said gunfire erupted a short time later before Simpson was seen returning inside with the same bag.
Shameka Scott, identified as Simpson’s girlfriend, was also arrested Wednesday. She has been charged with accessory after the fact after investigators alleged she helped Simpson flee following the shooting. Scott was later released after posting a $30,000 bond.
Court records show Simpson has an extensive criminal history dating back more than a decade. He was previously charged with first-degree murder in connection with a 2013 fatal shooting before later pleading guilty under a negotiated agreement and serving approximately five years in prison. Public records also show multiple subsequent arrests following his release.
The investigation into Wednesday’s shooting remains ongoing.
Charlotte is located in Mecklenburg County in south-central North Carolina near the South Carolina border and is the state’s largest city.
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