Tragedy struck the University City Division when a fatal vehicle crash claimed the life of a pedestrian yesterday evening. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department reported that 65-year-old Bernard Johnson was found unresponsive following the incident on the 7700 block of North Tryon Street. The call came in around 7:34 p.m., and despite emergency services' efforts, Mr. Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.
While the driver of the grey Infiniti involved in the accident sustained only minor injuries and was subsequently released. The vehicle was discovered stopped on the side of the road, with officials quickly arriving to manage the aftermath of the collision. Charlotte Fire and MEDIC took charge of the dire scene, confirming Mr. Johnson's fate.
The CMPD's Major Crash Investigation Unit, alongside the DWI Task Force and Crime Scene Search (CSS), immediately got to work, piecing together the circumstances that led to this unfortunate event. Early findings suggest that Johnson was crossing the street outside of a designated crosswalk when he was hit by the Infiniti, as noted in a statement released by the CMPD.
While the driver of the Infiniti was screened for impairment and found not to be under the influence, details remain unclear whether speed played a role in the crash. As for Mr. Johnson, the uncertainty lingers with toxicology results pending to determine if impairment could have been a factor on his part. CMPD has ensured that Johnson's next of kin were notified of his untimely death, completing one of the many difficult tasks that follow such tragedies.
The CMPD is calling for witnesses or those with information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Detective M. R. Pressley is leading the inquiry and can be reached at 704-432-2169 ext. 2. The community also has the option to provide tips anonymously through Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600, their mobile app, or website. The report filed under number 20260202-1934-00 will reflect any further developments in this ongoing case.
