Fatal Crash Investigation in the South Division

Published on September 24, 2025

Charlotte, N.C. – (Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025) – Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s (CMPD) Major Crash Investigation Unit are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash in the South Division. 

On Tuesday, Sept. 23, at approximately 4:49 p.m., officers responded to a motor vehicle crash with injuries in the 8400 block of Pineville-Matthews Rd. Upon arrival, officers located a damaged Nissan Xterra and Honda Civic. The driver of the Nissan was located on the scene with minor injuries. The driver of the Honda, Kenneth Earle, 26, was located with life-threatening injuries. MEDIC arrived and pronounced Earle deceased.

Detectives with the Major Crash Investigation Unit and DWI Task Force responded to the scene to conduct their investigation. Members of Crime Scene Search (CSS) responded to process the scene and collect physical evidence. The Charlotte Fire Department and MEDIC also responded to the scene.

The preliminary investigation indicates that Earle was driving his Honda northeast on Pineville-Matthews Road when his vehicle veered in the left lane into oncoming traffic striking the front of the Nissan.

Toxicology results are pending for Earle.

Mr. Earle’s next of kin has been notified of his death.

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 or has information about this crash is asked to call Detective Kupfer at 704-432-2169, Ext. 1.  The public can also leave information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600, using the Charlotte Crime Stoppers P3 Tips Mobile App  or Charlotte Crime Stoppers. For additional information about this crash, please refer to the report: 20250923-1649-01.

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