David Lee Shaw, a 45-year-old man from Charlotte, North Carolina, died on July 8, 2014. His death was investigated as a homicide after a violent altercation; several suspects were identified and multiple arrests followed. One 32-year-old male from Charlotte was charged with first-degree murder. Prosecutors contended the killing was premeditated while the defense argued the fight was self-defense. A jury later convicted the defendant of second-degree murder and imposed a lengthy prison term.

Shaw’s family also filed a wrongful-death civil suit against the convicted man, and the case has prompted community vigils and calls for stronger efforts to address violence in the area.