Julian Cyruss Spencer, 24, was found dead on the morning of March 17, 2026, in a secluded utility right-of-way along a gravel road off Belmeade Drive near Mount Holly Road in west Charlotte. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department located his body at about 10:15 a.m.; the area was described as remote, near railroad tracks and power lines. The case was immediately treated as a homicide.

Spencer’s mother, Melissa, remembered him as a wonderful, goofy person who loved his family and was the father of a young daughter. Authorities have not disclosed a motive or the specific manner of death, although some reports suggested he may have been shot. The investigation remains active.

On March 21, 2026, 47-year-old Eugene Turner was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon; he is being held without bond and has prior convictions including felony larceny, stalking, and conspiracy. If anyone knew Julian or saw anything in the Belmeade Drive area on March 17, please come forward with information.