Homicide Investigation Underway After Deadly Restaurant Shooting

CHARLOTTE, NC — Police have launched a homicide investigation after a 37-year-old man was fatally shot inside a south Charlotte restaurant Wednesday evening.

The Feb. 5 shooting occurred shortly after 9 p.m. at the La Poblanita Bar and Grill located at 1925 Westinghouse Boulevard.

According to a police account, an adult man entered the restaurant and shot the victim, who was later identified as Juan Velazquez Hernandez, 37.

Hernandez was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

“The motive behind the shooting is still unknown,” CMPD said. “At the time of this shooting, the victim was working for a business which had been hired by the restaurant to perform maintenance on some kitchen equipment.

CMPD said that anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit detective, or call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.