A back-to-school celebration in Charlotte, North Carolina, ended in chaos Saturday when police say a mother fired a gun into the air to break up a fight.
Cherez Davis, 34, was arrested and charged with carrying a concealed firearm and inciting panic. She was released from jail later that day on a $50,000 bond.
The incident occurred during the C.W. Williams Community Health Center’s annual Back to School Health Fair, a long-running event offering free school supplies, health services, and food to thousands of local families. Organizers said the day had been marked by music, laughter, and community spirit—until the gunfire sent more than 100 attendees running for cover.
According to police, the disturbance began when Davis’s son and another boy got into an argument. Davis told investigators the situation escalated after another adult became involved. At that point, she allegedly retrieved a Taurus G6 handgun from her backpack and fired two shots into the air before walking away. Officers later recovered the firearm. No injuries were reported.
Witnesses provided a description of Davis, and she was taken into custody shortly afterward. Court records state she admitted to firing the shots, telling police she wanted to end the fight.
The health center released a statement acknowledging the shooting but emphasizing that the incident was isolated and came near the close of the event. “We are saddened that our community, vendors and team members experienced this, but are so thankful that no one was harmed,” the statement read. The organization praised its staff for staying calm and helping attendees in the moments after the gunfire.
Held annually since the center’s founding, this year’s fair doubled as a celebration of the C.W. Williams Community Health Center’s 45th anniversary and the 60th anniversary of the nation’s community health centers. Organizers said thousands of families received free medical checkups, school supplies, and meals, and that local elected officials joined the festivities in support.
A spokesperson for the Health Center asked everyone to think about the success of the day. Their statement reads, “Let’s not allow this to detract or distract us from what was accomplished by the tireless work of our team. It is the many hours before this incident and the joy experienced by all that shall be remembered.”
Davis is scheduled to appear in court later this month. Police said the investigation remains open but did not indicate whether additional charges are expected. For many in attendance, the abrupt violence was a jarring reminder of how quickly celebration can give way to fear—even in spaces built for joy and connection.
