In a sobering incident right before Christmas, Matthews Police Department responded to a multi-car crash on East Independence Boulevard that resulted in an impaired driving charge. The collision, involving four vehicles, occurred last Wednesday around 6:27 p.m., and led to the injury and hospitalization of three people, including the now-charged driver, Mr. Evan Lewis Whiteside of Charlotte.
According to a social media post from the Matthews Police Department, Whiteside has been charged with Driving While Impaired and Reckless Driving - Wanton Disregard, following the accident Matthews officers from the Patrol Division who arrived on the scene swiftly took charge, taking into account the safety of commuting citizens and conducting a methodical investigation at the scene.
The aftermath of the crash had a significant impact on the holiday traffic flow as the westbound side of E. Independence Blvd. was closed from 6:39 p.m. until 9:03 p.m. so the authorities could perform their duties without hindrance, this closure understandably caused disruption, but was necessary for the on-scene inquiry led by the Matthews Police Department's Traffic Safety Unit.
While the investigation remains active, Matthews Police used this incident to reinforce a critical message, they plead with all to heed the all-too-familiar warning: "STAY ALIVE! DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!"
