On January 1, 2023, 28-year-old Raymond Ningmua Ayumbi Ntungwen was fatally shot on West Tyvola Road in Charlotte, North Carolina. A poet, musician, and father originally from Cameroon, Raymond was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.

Police say 28-year-old Michael Pringle contacted authorities after the shooting, surrendered, was interviewed, and was charged with Raymond’s murder. In October 2023 the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s office dismissed the murder charge after Pringle claimed he had acted in self-defense during an altercation over a bag of marijuana that turned into a physical struggle involving a firearm; prosecutors cited a lack of independent evidence, such as witnesses or video, to disprove that claim beyond a reasonable doubt.

Raymond’s mother, Pamela Ntungwen, voiced deep frustration and grief at the dismissal and moved from Pineville to Minnesota because she could not remain near the place of her son’s death. In May 2024 Pringle was arrested for an armed robbery of a Wells Fargo in Pineville; the magistrate’s order alleges he brandished a firearm, used a 16-year-old accomplice, and stole more than $18,000. Pamela said she felt some relief at that arrest and believes justice will take its course.

Does anyone have information about Raymond’s case or witnessed the events on West Tyvola Road that morning?