Burlington, NC – Authorities in Burlington, North Carolina, have announced two additional arrests in connection with a violent shooting that occurred last month, bringing new developments to a case that initially left a 19-year-old man fighting for his life.
According to a news release from the Burlington Police Department (BPD), investigators have now identified four individuals believed to be responsible for the shooting, which unfolded in early November along a busy city roadway.
Shooting Reported on Huffman Mill Road
Police said the incident occurred on November 5, at approximately 6:19 p.m., when officers were dispatched to reports of gunfire in the 700 block of Huffman Mill Road.
Upon arrival, officers located a 19-year-old male victim suffering from life-threatening gunshot injuries. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Officials later confirmed that the victim’s condition has significantly improved and that he is now expected to make a full recovery.
Investigation Reveals Four Suspects Involved
Following weeks of investigation, BPD detectives determined that the shooting was not random. Authorities concluded that four individuals were involved in what they described as a planned criminal act that escalated into gun violence.
The investigation led to multiple arrests throughout the month of November, with charges reflecting the seriousness of the alleged crimes.
First Arrest: Michael Olmos, 18
On November 17, police arrested Michael Olmos, 18, in connection with the shooting. According to authorities, Olmos faces the following charges:
- Conspiracy to Commit Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon
- Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill, Inflicting Serious Injury
- Discharging a Weapon into an Occupied Moving Vehicle
Officials did not immediately release details regarding Olmos’ bond status.
Second Arrest: Dantrell Bellanger, 18
Just days later, on November 20, Dantrell Bellanger, 18, was also taken into custody. Bellanger faces the same set of charges as Olmos, including:
- Conspiracy to Commit Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon
- Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill, Inflicting Serious Injury
- Discharging a Weapon into an Occupied Moving Vehicle
Police believe Bellanger played an active role in the shooting and subsequent events.
Two More Suspects Charged, Including a Juvenile
On Wednesday, authorities announced that David Jeremiah Meeks, 19, was arrested and transported to the Alamance County Jail, where he was held without bond.
In addition, a high school-aged juvenile was also charged in connection with the case. That individual is currently in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice. Due to the suspect’s age, further identifying details were not released.
Both Meeks and the juvenile face multiple serious felony charges, including:
- Conspiracy to Commit Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon
- Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill, Inflicting Serious Injury
- Two Counts of Discharging a Weapon into an Occupied Dwelling
- Discharging a Weapon into an Occupied Moving Vehicle
Police emphasized that the investigation remains active, and additional evidence is still being reviewed.
Authorities credited coordinated investigative efforts for identifying all suspects and stressed their commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
Police Ask Public for Information
The Burlington Police Department is still asking for help from the public. Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact BPD directly at (336) 229-3500. Tips can help investigators strengthen the case as it moves through the court system.
What are your thoughts on this case and the recent arrests? Do you think enough is being done to prevent youth violence in local communities? Share your opinions, concerns, or insights in the comments below and join the discussion.
