Fatal Vehicle Crash in the South Division
Charlotte, N.C. – (Monday, November 7, 2022) – Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department's Major Crash Investigation Unit are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash in the South Division.
On November 7, 2022, at approximately 11:17 a.m., officers in the South Division responded to the 14100 block of Johnston Road in reference to a single vehicle crash. Upon arrival, officers located a 2015 Jeep Cherokee stopped in the roadway with heavy front-end damage and the driver was unresponsive. CFD and MEDIC responded and MEDIC transported the driver, Ernest Walter (DOB: 12/08/1943), to Atrium Pineville where he was later pronounced deceased.
The CMPD Major Crash Unit and Crime Scene Search responded to conduct the investigation.
The preliminary investigation indicates the victim was traveling south on Johnston Road and was in the left lane when he began to veer left and ran off the left side of the road. The vehicle continued into the grass median where it sideswiped and struck numerous trees before overturning and landing in an upright position. Mr. Walter was wearing his seatbelt and airbags did deploy.
Impairment does not appear to be a factor for the driver of the vehicle, but speed does appear to be a factor.
The next of kin in this case has also been notified.
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 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 http://charlottecrimestoppers.com/. For additional information about this case, please refer to the report: 20221107-1117-04.