Charlotte Man Pleads Guilty in Killing of His Adoptive Father

Desmond Dunlap admits to stabbing his 79-year-old adoptive father Fred Dunlap in July 2024

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A 21-year-old Charlotte man named Desmond Dunlap has pleaded guilty to killing his 79-year-old adoptive father Fred Dunlap in July 2024. Desmond was arrested the day after Fred's body was found behind their home on Bobby Lane, and he has now admitted to arguing with and then stabbing his father with a kitchen knife.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic nature of domestic violence and the need for better mental health support, as Desmond had prior diagnoses but had stopped taking his prescribed medication. The killing also deeply impacted the close-knit Providence Division neighborhood where the Dunlaps lived.

The details

Desmond Dunlap pleaded guilty on Wednesday to killing his adoptive father Fred Dunlap, whose body was found behind their home on Bobby Lane in July 2024 after being reported missing. Desmond was arrested the following day and initially charged with murder, financial transaction card theft, and obtaining property by false pretense. At his initial court appearance, prosecutors said Desmond had confessed to arguing with and then stabbing Fred with a kitchen knife.

  • Fred Dunlap was reported missing on July 23, 2024.
  • Fred's body was found on July 24, 2024 "from an apparent trauma" behind the home.
  • Desmond Dunlap was arrested on July 25, 2024.

The players

Desmond Elijah Dunlap

A 21-year-old Charlotte resident who pleaded guilty to killing his 79-year-old adoptive father Fred Dunlap.

Fred Willie Dunlap

The 79-year-old adoptive father of Desmond Dunlap, who was killed in July 2024.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.