Holly MatkinGastonia, NC – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) Homicide Detective Angela “Angie” Starnes died unexpectedly while off-duty on May 16.
The 48-year-old passed away at her home, according to her obituary.
Her exact cause of death was not released.
“Anyone who knew her or worked with her knows her kindness and good nature will be missed dearly,” CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings told WBTV in a statement later that day. “Please keep Ofc. Starnes’ family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this difficult time.”
Det. Starnes graduated from Columbia Southern University with a 4.0 GPA before becoming a sworn police officer in 2003, according to her obituary.
She served the Belmont Abbey College Police Department, the City of Belmont Police Department, and the Charlotte Area Transit before joining the CMPD in 2012.
Det. Starnes landed her “dream job” as a CMPD Homicide Unit detective in June of 2019, according to her obituary.
“During her career in law enforcement, she was recognized numerous times for her acts of kindness to citizens she met,” the tribute read.
She was named Officer of the Month in April of 2018 after she purchased a bus ticket and a meal for a stranger who was stranded at Charlotte Douglas International Airport during a blizzard, The Charlotte Observer reported.
Det. Starnes leaves behind her fiancé, Jeff, as well as her daughters, Ashli and Megan, her stepdaughter, Sydnie, and her three grandchildren.
She is also survived by her siblings, stepsiblings, uncle, aunt, niece, nephews, and many friends and extended family members.
Det. Starnes will be laid to rest on May 28.
I am devastated today to learn CMPD Officer Angela Starnes passed away unexpectedly at her home. Please keep Ofc. Starnes’ family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this difficult time.
— Chief Jennings (@cmpdchief) May 16, 2022
Ofc. Starnes last worked in the Homicide Unit. Anyone who knew her or worked with her knows her kindness and good nature will be missed dearly. From now until Ofc. Starnes’ funeral @CMPD will be wearing mourning bands in her honor.
— Chief Jennings (@cmpdchief) May 16, 2022
The Charlotte Fire Department extends our deepest condolences to the loved ones and colleagues of @CMPD Officer Angela Starnes. pic.twitter.com/pvkWTAAGNS
— Charlotte Fire Dept. (@charlottefire) May 17, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detective Angela “Angie” Starnes, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
