North Carolina Father Fatally Stabbed His 5-Year-Old Son
A North Carolina father has been charged with first-degree murder after police say he fatally stabbed his 5-year-old son during an early morning attack in Pineville on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
Child Dies After Apartment Attack
According to the Pineville Police Department, officers responded shortly after midnight to the Sabal Point Apartments on Sabal Park Drive after receiving a frantic 911 call from the child’s mother reporting an assault with a deadly weapon.
Police said officers arrived within a minute and found the 5-year-old boy suffering from multiple stab wounds. Officers immediately provided first aid before transporting the child to a nearby hospital in a police vehicle.
Despite lifesaving efforts, the child was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Father Arrested and Charged
Investigators identified 31-year-old Jehaaz-Akil Khaliq Echoles as the primary suspect. Police said he was taken into custody a short distance from the apartment and has been charged with first-degree murder.
Authorities believe Echoles forced his way into the apartment before the attack.
Investigation Continues
Police said the child’s mother and another child were inside the apartment during the incident but were not physically injured. Both are receiving counseling and support services.
Pineville Police Chief Corey Copley said officers had previously responded to domestic violence calls at the same residence.
The Pineville Police Department and the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office continue to investigate the case.
