Charlotte Struggles with Escalating Traffic Fatalities and Rising Violence

Charlotte Faces Rising Traffic Fatalities Amid Staggering Violence

It’s been a tough week for our beloved Charlotte, as we grapple with the heartbreak of losing lives both on the roads and on the streets. Traffic-related incidents have, unfortunately, claimed four more victims this week. With these latest tragedies, the total number of traffic-related fatalities in our city this year has climbed to 64. This is a staggering number, as it has already surpassed the total fatalities of all of 2022 and is now just a few shy of last year’s total of 70.

The Heartbreaking Incidents

On Tuesday, just after 2 p.m., the community was rocked by the news of a deadly accident involving 47-year-old Aneesah Akbar and her 74-year-old passenger, Darlene Akbar. They were tragically killed when a speeding driver, who is now suspected of being impaired, struck their Toyota Camry while they were making a left turn on East W.T. Harris Boulevard. It’s heartbreaking to think of the lives lost due to reckless behavior on the road. The driver of the other vehicle, a Hyundai, was taken to the hospital but has since been charged with two counts of felony death by vehicle, reckless driving, and driving without a license.

The next morning at approximately 2:50 a.m., first responders were called to yet another crash on Archdale Drive. Here, they found a black Toyota Tacoma had hit a tree, with two occupants suffering from life-threatening injuries. Sadly, 22-year-old Ever Elizand Castillo-Guardado did not survive the ordeal, while the driver, still unidentified, is in critical condition. Preliminary investigations hinted at speed and alcohol being contributing factors. Alarmingly, neither occupant was wearing a seatbelt. This serves as a gentle reminder to us all about the importance of safety precautions while driving.

Then, on Thursday, tragedy struck again in the form of a motorcycle crash on Highland Creek Parkway. Gregory Glisson Jr., just 34 years old, lost his life after he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into a pole. This incident marked him as the second motorcyclist fatality in Charlotte within just a week, as the city now records its tenth motorcycle death this year alone. It’s a somber reminder to ride safely and within limits.

Violence Rises in the City

Jose Mejia-Gaona dead from a gunshot wound. The circumstances around his death are under investigation as a homicide.

Tuesday brought more sorrow with the discovery of 56-year-old Curtis Alvin Sherer, found also shot dead in the Reid Park neighborhood. Then, on Thursday evening, another tragic scene unfolded at an apartment complex, where 25-year-old Justice Timmons was found dead. As with the prior incidents, details surrounding these violent acts remain murky, and no arrests have been made yet. It’s heartbreaking to watch our city being affected by such violence during these trying times.

Election Season is Here

It’s important for all of us to remember that life is precious, whether on the road or in our neighborhoods. As Charlotte continues to face challenges, let’s band together as a community to promote safety and support one another in times of grief. Here’s wishing you all a safe week ahead and encouraging everyone to look out for one another.