CHARLOTTE, NC – A longtime Bank of America employee was shot and killed outside her workplace Friday morning, leaving her family and coworkers grieving and the community searching for answers.

Authorities were called to the scene at the 9700 block of Callabridge Court just after 10:30 a.m., where they found 50-year-old Ina Michelle Lang suffering from a fatal gunshot wound. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene.

Police quickly identified and apprehended 22-year-old Sam’on Andrew Smith in connection with the killing. He has since been charged with first-degree murder and remains in the Mecklenburg County Jail without bond. So far, investigators have not shared any explanation for what led to the attack.

Family members believe Lang was shot while taking a cigarette break near the bank’s building, a routine part of her workday. Lang was a 20-year veteran of Bank of America and was well-known among staff for her dedication and warm spirit.

Co-workers and friends responded to the tragedy by launching an online fundraising campaign to assist Lang’s husband, Mike, with funeral expenses. The campaign describes Lang as a devoted wife and mother, remembered for her unwavering work ethic and her caring, family-like approach at work.

“Ina brought a nurturing energy to our team, always ready to help and never missing an opportunity to give,” read the account’s description. Those who worked closely with her say she left an indelible mark and was cherished by all those around her.

As news of the arrest circulated, loved ones of the suspect also came forward. Smith was reportedly taken into custody at his mother’s home. His uncle, George Wise, described him as someone who was rarely in trouble and not involved in criminal activity. Wise recounted receiving a call from Smith’s mother regarding a heavy police presence at the house.

Despite widespread speculation, police continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter outside the bank branch. To date, no motive has been made public, and authorities have not indicated whether Smith and Lang knew each other.

The homicide has stunned both the banking community and the neighborhood, with many expressing shock at the sudden loss of a woman described as selfless and hardworking. Bank of America has not issued an official statement as the investigation continues.

Lang’s loved ones, colleagues, and community members are grieving the loss while supporting her family and seeking justice in what they describe as a senseless act of violence.