Charlotte, NC – A homicide investigation that began in October has led to the arrest of a 19-year-old Charlotte resident accused of brutally killing his uncle behind a family home in the early hours of the morning.
Teen Arrested Weeks After Uncle’s Death
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police say Christian Heredia Caraballo, 19, is charged with the murder of his uncle, 50-year-old Ernesto Caraballo Toledo, following a violent incident authorities described as both a beating and a strangulation. Although the death occurred on October 18, Caraballo was arrested on Tuesday after investigators gathered evidence linking him to the killing.
Officers were called to the family home on Wembley Drive shortly before 2 a.m. that morning. When they arrived, they found Toledo lying on the ground in the backyard with severe head trauma, according to an affidavit. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
What Investigators Found at the Scene
Family members told police that four relatives were at the home that night. While Toledo and Caraballo were outside, the others were inside sleeping. According to documents, Caraballo entered the home and told them “something happened and they needed to come outside.” He reportedly had unexplained cuts on his hands and an injury to his ear.
Officers found a broken rock-like paver, overturned furniture, and blood drops and handprints throughout the backyard, kitchen, and living room. The scene suggested a violent struggle had taken place.
Conflicting Stories and Key DNA Evidence
Police say the two family members inside the home gave consistent statements to investigators, confirming they were asleep until Caraballo alerted them. Caraballo, however, told officers that Toledo had gone outside alone for several minutes and that he later found him already dead, claiming he had no explanation for the blood or the damaged furniture.
An autopsy revealed Toledo not only suffered significant head trauma but had also been strangled. According to detectives, Caraballo’s DNA matched samples collected from the suspected murder weapon, from beneath the victim’s fingernails, and from a suspected bite mark on Toledo’s arm.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive or what may have led to the deadly confrontation.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Caraballo is being held without bond at the Mecklenburg County Detention Center. His next court appearance is scheduled for December 23 as the homicide investigation continues.
Community Impact and What Comes Next
The killing has raised concern among neighbors in the typically quiet Wembley Drive community. Police have encouraged residents to stay alert and contact detectives with any additional information that may help clarify the events leading up to Toledo’s death.
CMPD continues to investigate the full timeline as forensic evidence, interviews, and autopsy findings shape the case against the 19-year-old.
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