Tragic Bicyclist Incident in Southeast Charlotte

Importance of cyclist visibility for safety on roadways.

News Summary

The Charlotte community mourns the loss of 39-year-old Stephen Lawson, who tragically died in a collision while cycling on Albemarle Road. The incident raises serious concerns about cyclist safety, particularly around visibility equipment. Law enforcement is investigating, calling for any witnesses to come forward to contribute to the inquiry.

Tragic Bicyclist Incident in Southeast Charlotte

Charlotte is mourning the loss of a local bicyclist named Stephen Lawson, aged 39, who tragically died following a collision with a vehicle on Thursday, March 27, around 8:30 p.m. The unfortunate incident occurred on Albemarle Road, near Arlington Church Road, in the southeast area of the city.

The Crash

Details surrounding the crash, reported by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) on April 1, are quite somber. Officers discovered Lawson unresponsive on the shoulder of the roadway after he was struck by a gray 2008 Honda Accord. At the time of the collision, Lawson was riding his bicycle westbound in the left lane of Albemarle Road. It appears that the driver of the Honda Accord had damage to the vehicle’s front end but managed to stop in the left lane.

One critical detail noted was that Lawson’s bicycle did not have any visibility marker lights on either the front or rear. This lack of visibility equipment raises concerns about the safety measures in place for cyclists, especially during nighttime riding.

Immediate Response

After the crash, emergency medical services rushed Lawson to Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center with what were described as life-threatening injuries. Sadly, he succumbed to those injuries and was pronounced dead on Monday, March 31. This tragic ending to what should have been a casual ride speaks volumes about the dangers cyclists face on roadways, especially when they’re not equipped with proper safety gear.

Investigation Underway

The initial investigations carried out by CMPD indicate that the driver of the Honda Accord was neither speeding nor under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. However, authorities are still awaiting toxicology results for Lawson, which could provide additional context to this unfortunate incident.

Law enforcement is actively investigating the situation. The CMPD’s Major Crash Investigation Unit, along with the DWI Task Force and Crime Scene Search teams, are working diligently to uncover all the details surrounding this tragedy. They have reached out to Lawson’s next of kin to inform them of his passing.

Community Reflection and Safety Awareness

This heartbreaking incident not only serves as a reminder of the tragic consequences of road collisions but also highlights the urgent need for heightened safety measures for cyclists. With rides becoming more popular, especially during warmer months, the importance of being visible at night cannot be overstated. This tragic event raises a crucial conversation about the importance of wearing visibility equipment, such as lights and reflective gear, while cycling.

As the community processes this loss, the CMPD is encouraging anyone with additional information regarding the crash to reach out and contribute to the investigation. They can do so by contacting Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. It is vital for those who may have witnessed the incident to come forward and help ensure justice and understanding surrounding this case.

If you’re a cyclist or know someone who rides regularly, remember to stay safe out there. Make sure your bicycle is equipped with the necessary lights and reflectors, especially when riding at night. Visibility can save lives. Together, we can strive for a safer community for everyone on the road.