Police are still searching for the suspect responsible for the killing of 17-year-old Joseph Marcell Desouza. 

“We’re exploring a couple of leads,” Albemarle Police Chief David Dulin said.

Albemarle Police responded to a report of gunshots at 1518 Inger St. early Saturday morning.
Police arrived and found Desouza had been shot in the abdomen. EMS was unable to revive him.

Desouza was scheduled to graduate from the Stanly County DASH (Developing Adolescents Strengthening Homes) program Tuesday evening.

Officers are collecting evidence and the State Bureau of Investigations has been called in for assistance.

Witnesses, police say, noticed a gray or gold/silver Honda Accord in the area and believe it may be involved in the shooting.

Anyone with info is asked to call Albemarle Police at 704-984-9500 or leave an anonymous tip at 704-984-9511.