Tragic Crash Claims the Life of Elderly Driver in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A heartbreaking incident occurred this past weekend in south Charlotte, leaving the community in shock. An 87-year-old man, Carl Daniel Gardner, succumbed to injuries suffered in a car crash that took place on December 7th.
What Happened?
The accident unfolded around 11:30 a.m. near the intersection of Providence Road and Cherokee Road. Authorities from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department quickly responded to the scene, where they located two vehicles involved in the collision: a 1990 GMC pickup driven by Gardner and a 2003 GMC Yukon Denali.
The Collision Details
According to investigators, the driver of the Yukon was waiting to make a left turn onto Cherokee Road. Unfortunately, in a tragic turn of events, Gardner reportedly failed to slow down and crashed into the SUV. It’s worth noting that authorities determined Gardner was not speeding at the time of the incident, and there was no indication of impairment involved.
The Aftermath
Following the crash, Gardner was rushed to Atrium Health’s Carolinas Medical Center where medical staff worked tirelessly to save him. Sadly, despite their best efforts, he passed away from his injuries just a few days later on December 12, according to the latest reports from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
Community Response
As news of Gardner’s passing spreads, many in the community are left reflecting on the fragility of life. It’s a stark reminder to everyone about the importance of road safety and the unpredictable nature of traffic situations.
Help Needed
Authorities are still piecing together the events of that fateful day and are encouraging anyone who may have information about the crash to step forward. If you witnessed the accident, please reach out to Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Alternatively, you can contact Detective Pressley directly at 704-432-2169 extension 2.
More Than A Number Initiative
In the wake of such unfortunate incidents, the community is encouraged to reflect on the lives impacted. If you knew Carl Gardner or have memories to share, there’s an opportunity to honor his life through the “More Than A Number” initiative. This endeavor aims to humanize statistics and emphasize the personal stories behind tragic events. You can share photos and memories via email at desk@wcnc.com.
Stay Informed
For residents eager to stay updated on news impacting the area—including breaking news, weather updates, and traffic alerts—there’s an option to download a mobile app for the latest information. Don’t forget to enable push notifications to stay in the loop.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on this incident, let’s remember the importance of safe driving and supporting one another in our community. Tragedies strike unexpectedly, but by coming together and sharing our stories, we can keep the memories of those we lose alive.
