Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Beloved Charlotte Woman
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Early Monday morning, tragedy struck just outside Uptown Charlotte when a hit-and-run accident took the life of a 53-year-old woman. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department reported that the heartbreaking incident occurred shortly after 2 a.m. on North Caldwell Street, near Belmont Avenue, just north of I-277.
A Life Snuffed Out Too Soon
Authorities responded promptly to the scene, where they discovered Wanda Rena Sheppard lying in the road, suffering from severe injuries. Despite being rushed to Novant Presbyterian Hospital, Sheppard was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The news has left her family and friends devastated as they grapple with an unimaginable loss.
Witnesses Share Heart-Wrenching Details
According to witnesses who spoke with police, a dark-colored vehicle struck Sheppard as she attempted to cross the street and then sped away from the scene. Officials have yet to provide a detailed description of the suspect vehicle, leaving the community in a state of heightened concern over road safety.
A Daughter’s Memories
Sheppard’s daughter, Sherika Sheppard, expressed her agony in a heartfelt statement, remembering her mother as a cherished mother, sister, grandmother, auntie, and friend to many. “She had such a wonderful smile and loved to dance,” Sherika reflected, emphasizing the warmth and love that so many people experienced from her mother. The emotional toll of losing such a vibrant member of the family is clearly weighing heavily on them.
Community Urged to Help
As investigators work tirelessly to gather more information about the events leading up to the tragic crash, they are calling upon the community for help. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to reach out to Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Remember, all calls are entirely anonymous, and there is a potential for a cash reward if the information leads to an arrest. Alternatively, witnesses can also contact Detective Sessoms at 704-432-2169, extension 3.
More Than Just a Number
In the wake of this tragedy, efforts are being made to honor Sheppard’s memory through a new initiative aiming to share the stories of victims with the wider community. This program, dubbed “More Than A Number,” seeks to illuminate the lives impacted by these incidents. If you wish to share your memories, photos, or details about Wanda Sheppard, you are encouraged to reach out via email.
Community at a Crossroads
This incident has sparked conversations throughout Charlotte about road safety and the need for greater protection for pedestrians. As hearts break across the city for Wanda Sheppard, many are calling for action to ensure that such tragedies don’t occur in the future.
As we remember Wanda and the light she brought into the lives of so many, our thoughts remain with her family during this incredibly difficult time. If you have any information, please consider stepping forward to aid in the investigation—the community stands ready to support the Sheppard family and help bring justice.
