New details in South Charlotte murder case, third suspect arrested

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A third person is now charged in connection with the death of an 18-year-old who was shot in south Charlotte in October, records show.

Maximillian Ruggiero is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday on first-degree murder and armed robbery charges in connection with the death of Zachary Evan Rieken, who was found dead in a car along James Blakeney Avenue on Oct. 26.

Doorbell video obtained by WCNC Charlotte shows the moments a gunman fired into Rieken’s car. Riken is then seen driving the car and causing an accident. The shooter and others ran to another car and sped away from the scene. A Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police arrest report states that Ruggiero stole about $200 worth of marijuana from Rieken at gunpoint.

“His death continues to take my breath away,” Chandra Rieken said during a Nov. 4 vigil. “It hurts so much to know he’s dead.”

Two other teenagers, including a 17-year-old, are also facing charges in the case. All three suspects are charged with murder and other charges related to the incident.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Witnesses can also call 704-432-TIPS to speak directly with homicide detectives.

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