Published on March 26, 2023
Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Major Crash Investigation Unit are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash in the Steele Creek Division.
Charlotte, N.C. – (Monday, March 27, 2023) – Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Major Crash Investigation Unit are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash in the Steele Creek Division. On Sunday, March 26, 2023, at approximately 12:19 a.m., officers responded to the 11700 block of S. Tryon Street in reference to a two-vehicle collision. Upon arrival, officers located an overturned 2015 Kia Optima with heavy front end damage and a 2015 GMC Acadia with major front-end damage. The driver of the Kia Optima was pronounced deceased on scene by Medic. The driver has been identified as Ri’chard Anthony Donell Davis (DOB: 09/13/2007). His family has been notified of his death. The driver of GMC Acadia, Carolina Areza (DOB: 01/22/1979), was transported to Atrium Health Main with serious injuries. The preliminary investigation indicates the Kia Optima was traveling at a high rate of speed northbound on South Tryon Street when the vehicle lost control, crossed into oncoming traffic and struck the GMC Acadia in the front driver’s side. The Kia was reported stolen two days earlier (Refer to report: 20230324-1007-02). Ms. Areza was screened for impairment and was determined to not be impaired. Speed is also not a factor. Speed is a factor for the juvenile, and it is unknown if impairment is a factor. Toxicology results are pending. The investigation into this crash is active and ongoing. As additional information develops, it will be released by the CMPD’s Public Affairs Office. Any person who witnessed the crash of has information about this case is asked to call Detective Buckley at (704) 432-2169, extension 6. The public can also leave information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at (704) 334-1600 or Charlotte Crime Stoppers. For additional information about this crash, please refer to the report: 20230326-0019-03.
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