CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Family and friends gathered Friday night to pay tribute to 19-year-old Joelle “JoJo” Clesca, who was fatally shot at a Wingstop restaurant. The incident occurred on Beatties Ford Road, drawing community members together in a poignant celebration of his life and lamentation over his untimely death.
Clesca’s family described him as a diligent worker, devoted friend, and someone who had much yet to accomplish. His grandfather, Kobie Emanuel, expressed profound sorrow and frustration, calling the act of violence against his grandson unacceptable. “My grandson was not murdered. He was assassinated,” Emanuel stated, urging the community to confront escalating violence.
In the wake of the shooting, three individuals — Santario Turner, Deandre Chisholm, and Justin Jones — were arrested and charged with murder and conspiracy. According to police reports, Chisholm claimed that during a DoorDash delivery, Jones recognized someone, became agitated, and expressed intent to harm. Chisholm attempted to distance himself when he observed Jones arm himself and don a mask prior to the shooting. Surveillance footage indicated a masked assailant entering the restaurant and firing a shot that struck Clesca.
Community sentiments ran high during the vigil, with attendees sharing their grief and calling for action against senseless violence. “No more pats on the back for criminals,” Emanuel said. “We need to stand up as citizens of Charlotte and stop this senseless violence.” He emphasized the responsibility of the community to come together in response to such tragedies.
Despite the heartbreaking nature of the event, police statistics show a decrease in homicides in Charlotte this year, with reported figures of 62 compared to 82 during the same timeframe last year. However, Emanuel insisted that more needs to be done to deter violence and protect future generations.
All three suspects in Clesca’s case are expected to appear in court during the first week of November, as the family continues to process their grief and seek justice. The loss of Joelle Clesca serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for change in societal attitudes toward violence and accountability.