Shooting leads to murder charge
On April 21, 2026, at approximately 11:03 p.m., the Alexander County 911 Communications Center received a call reporting a civil disturbance at 71 Fairmont Court in Stony Point. The caller disconnected shortly after placing the call, according to Sheriff Chad Pennell.
Moments later, a neighbor contacted 911, reporting that they heard yelling followed by several gunshots coming from the residence.
Deputies responded to the scene and located a victim outside the home. Life-saving measures were initiated; however, upon arrival, Alexander County EMS pronounced the victim deceased.
The family has requested that the victim’s name not be released at this time.
Investigators determined that suspects fled the scene in a white Nissan Altima. The vehicle was later stopped by the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office on Hickory Highway near Statesville.
The Alexander County Sheriff’s Office has arrested and charged Jeremiah Hernandez Freeland, H/M, age 21, of Statesville, with Murder. Freeland is currently being held in the Alexander County Detention Center under no bond with a first appearance in Alexander District Court on April 27, 2026.
The Alexander County Sheriff’s Office also arrested and charged Jacob Brooks Perkins, W/M, age 19, listed as homeless, with one count of Accessory After the Fact to Murder. He is currently being held in the Alexander County Detention Center without bond. His first appearance in Alexander County District Court is scheduled for April 27, 2026.
The Alexander County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Taylorsville Police Department, North Carolina Highway Patrol, and the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this investigation.
This remains an active investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
I’m praying so hard for the family involved! I knew the victim since he was a toddler and I pray for comfort and strength for the family during this time and may god be with each and every one of them!
I’m gonna always keep you right in my heart I have enjoyed all the good times and I will always be ready to meet you in Heaven! I could not have asked for a better nephew!
Didn’t know any of these people but want to send prayers out to all the families. I know the victim’s family are probably beside themselves with grief. I pray the Lord brings them peace, love and understanding. L As for the families of the two suspects I pray for them as well. It has to be hard to know they were involved in such a horrific crime. And special prayers to the young man who was shot and killed in his prime. The world is really changing and the violence increasing. God bless us all!!