Multiple Arrests and Game Cancellation at Statesville High – West Iredell High Football Game

The Statesville Police Department responded to a series of incidents during the Statesville High School – West Iredell High School football game on October 6, 2023, held at Statesville High School.

During the event, officers on special assignment observed Keonta Chambers, 20 of Statesville, who was wanted for eight (8) outstanding felony warrants related to a shooting incident on September 4, 2023. The shooting incident occurred at 212 Forest Hollow, injuring a 14-year-old. Chambers was apprehended without any further incident and is currently being held at the Iredell County Jail without bond for the outstanding warrants.

While arresting Chambers, officers observed marijuana and an open container of alcohol beside Shabaz Lovette, 28 of Statesville, who was seated in the driver's seat of the vehicle. Officers conducted a search of the vehicle, uncovering a 9mm Glock pistol with an extended magazine in a bag concealed between the legs of Noel Alexander, 23 of Statesville, who was in the back seat.

As officers attempted to take Alexander into custody, he attempted to flee on foot leading to a foot pursuit by officers. Alexander was successfully taken into custody after the deployment of a taser. Alexander has been charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Possession of a Firearm on School Grounds, and Resisting Arrest.

Lovette was cited for misdemeanor possession of marijuana and possession of an open container.

Shortly after these arrests, the Statesville Police Department received information regarding a potential threat on social media involving the use of a firearm targeting individuals from West Iredell. As a precautionary measure, officers notified school officials, leading to the decision to cancel the football game. Officers, with the assistance of the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, ensured the safe and orderly evacuation of all attendees from the stadium, and the situation was resolved without incident.

The Statesville Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit is actively investigating the incident. We encourage anyone with additional information to come forward and contact the Statesville Police Department at 704-878-3515.

Keonta Chambers