Tragic Accident in South Charlotte: Driver Charged After Fatal Collision
South Charlotte was shaken by a heart-wrenching incident this past Wednesday evening that has left many in the community reflecting on safety and responsibility on the roads. Police charged a woman after she was accused of hitting and killing a pedestrian, leaving loved ones devastated and friends in disbelief.
The Incident
On the night of the accident, around 8 p.m., officers with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department responded to a call reporting an accident on Old Pineville Road. When they arrived at the scene, they found 39-year-old James Hines lying in the road. Tragically, it was clear that his injuries were severe, and MEDIC pronounced him dead on the scene. Witnesses and authorities have described the scene as horrifying.
As the investigation unfolded, police stated that Hines was wearing dark clothing and was in the lanes of travel when he was struck. It’s a sobering reminder of the importance of visibility, especially at night.
The Driver and Charges
The driver involved in this heartbreaking incident was identified as 45-year-old Tamika Smyre. According to police reports, Smyre was driving a Lexus when the collision occurred. Following the accident, police charged her with driving while impaired and driving without a valid license. It appears that her license had been revoked prior to the incident, raising further questions about the circumstances surrounding her ability to be on the road.
In addition to the charges related to the accident, Smyre was also cited for possession of marijuana, which indicates that she may have been under the influence at the time of the collision. Fortunately, Smyre herself did not suffer any injuries in the crash.
The Community’s Reaction
As news of the incident spread, the community has been left in shock. The loss of James Hines has resonated deeply with many who knew him or who have commuted through the area. Friends and family members lament the tragedy and are now focusing on raising awareness around pedestrian safety and responsible driving.
Local authorities have expressed their concern over pedestrian safety, urging drivers to remain vigilant, especially during darker hours. Authorities believe that crashes like this could be prevented with increased awareness among both drivers and pedestrians.
Call for Information
Police are actively seeking any further information related to the crash. They have encouraged anyone who may have witnessed the accident or who has information to come forward. If you have any details that could assist the ongoing investigation, you are asked to contact CMPD Detective Matthew Pressley at 704-432-2169, extension 3, or to reach out anonymously to the Crime Stoppers tip line at 704-334-1600.
Conclusion
This tragic event serves as a powerful reminder of the need for safety and responsibility on our roads. As the community reflects on this loss, the hope is that lessons will be learned to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. It’s a heartbreaking reminder that every precaution counts when it comes to the shared responsibility of keeping our streets safe for everyone.
