Des’mon Thompson was a 34-year-old Black father of five and a local rapper in Charlotte, North Carolina, remembered by his family for his music, kindness and big spirit. His mother said he was a beautiful and private person who was close to his family and did not want him defined by his final moments.

On the evening of February 8, 2025, Thompson entered the To-Go Food Mart on Freedom Drive. Another man, Gregory Dowana, followed him inside and the two began to argue. A store worker moved a little girl out of the way just before Dowana pepper-sprayed Thompson. Thompson pulled out a gun and ran down an aisle; Dowana then drew two handguns and opened fire. Thompson was struck several times, was driven to a hospital by friends, and died there while medical staff worked on him.

Dowana, 29, remained at the scene, cooperated with police, was arrested and charged with murder; officers found two handguns, a rifle, extra magazines, ammunition and a ballistic vest in his car. Police said the shooting was connected to a domestic violence situation and that the men had argued in January, a claim Thompson’s mother disputed.

If anyone knew Des’mon Thompson, his routines, or the circumstances that led to that February evening, please share what can help the investigation.