Photo Courtesy of Joel Odom/Instagram
The city of Charlotte has experienced an incredible loss. According to WBTV, Joel Odom was found dead in the bathroom of his home by his father on Thursday.
The 22-year-old was the youngest person to run for mayor in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2019. The brilliant young man didn’t allow his age to deter him and wanted to make a positive impact in the community where he had seen many die prematurely by violence.
“Someone has to inspire young people,” Odom said. “That’s the only solution. Someone has to really care about the individuals in Charlotte, and I care.”
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Although Odom ultimately lost his bid as mayor to Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, his passion was undeniable.
“I am excited to prove all those individuals wrong,” Odom told WBTV during the election. “To show them that I have what it takes to be that leader.”
Out of five candidates in the race for mayor, Odom finished fourth.
According to the Charlotte Observer, the vicenarian didn’t meet the minimum age of 21 to run for office until one month before election day.
In October last year, WBTV reported that Odom celebrated his birthday by doing what he loved most- serving the community.
He hosted a donation drive in partnership with the Salvation Army Center of Hope for Women and Children and the “Regal Little Miss Teen North Carolina” pageant. Odom’s call to action led to the organization receiving much-needed supplies like health products, bedding, socks for its residents.
“We’re just trying to do our part to make sure our community has what it needs,” Odom expressed.
The cause of death has not been determined.