Fatal Crash Investigation in the Freedom Division

Published on May 06, 2026

Charlotte, N.C. – (Wednesday, May 6, 2026) – Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s (CMPD) Major Crash Investigation Unit are investigating a fatal vehicle crash in the Freedom Division.

On Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, at approximately 9:51 p.m., officers responded to a vehicle collision with personal injuries call for service in the 3200 block of Queen City Drive. Upon arrival, officers located a moped in the middle of the roadway. Nearby, officers located its rider, Elijah Smoot, 30, lying unresponsive in the roadway. Officers also located a white Jeep and its driver at the scene.

MEDIC responded to the scene and transported Mr. Smoot to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Jeep was uninjured.

Detectives with the CMPD Major Crash Investigation Unit, the DWI Task Force and Crime Scene Search responded to the scene and began their investigation.

The preliminary investigation indicated that Mr. Smoot was attempting to pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone when he was struck by the Jeep.

The driver of the Jeep was screened for impairment and determined not to be impaired.

On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, Mr. Smoot was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

It is unknown whether speed or impairment are factors for Mr. Smoot. Toxicology results are pending.

The investigation into this case is active and ongoing. As additional information develops, it will be released by the CMPD's Public Affairs Division. Any witnesses to the crash, or anyone with information concerning the crash, should contact Detective K. Sessoms at 704-432-2169 ext. 3. The public can also leave information anonymously by calling Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600, using the Charlotte Crime Stoppers P3 Tips Mobile App or by visiting the Charlotte Crime Stoppers website. For additional information about this case, please refer to the report: 20250808-2151-00.

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