CHARLOTTE, NC – A devastating collision on Interstate 485 in west Charlotte on July 26, 2025, claimed the lives of six people, including a young family traveling in a Chrysler minivan. The accident occurred around 11:30 a.m. on the I-485 Outer Loop near Exit 9 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and the Dixie River Road bridge, leaving the community in mourning.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a Honda CR-V, driven by an adult whose identity has not been released pending family notification, was traveling in the middle lane of I-485. A Chrysler minivan, carrying six occupants, was in the right lane. The Honda CR-V veered into the right lane, colliding with the Chrysler. The impact caused both vehicles to veer off the roadway and strike a tractor-trailer parked on the shoulder. The tractor-trailer was not at fault, and its driver was unharmed.
The crash resulted in the deaths of all six individuals pronounced dead at the scene. Among the victims in the Chrysler minivan were five occupants, including three children under the age of 10. A 16-year-old girl, also in the Chrysler, survived and was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Her condition has not been disclosed.
Emergency responders, including multiple ambulances and MEDIC’s mass casualty bus, were dispatched to the scene following an urgent call around 11:40 a.m. First responders reported that the vehicles were severely damaged, with some individuals trapped inside, requiring extensive extrication efforts. The interstate was closed for several hours as crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the scene.
The North Carolina Highway Patrol is still investigating the cause of the initial collision between the Honda CR-V and the Chrysler minivan. No further details about the factors contributing to the crash, such as speed or possible distractions, have been released at this time.
The tragic loss has deeply affected the Charlotte community. MEDIC expressed condolences, stating, “Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by this horrific incident.” Motorists and residents have shared their grief, with one driver, Grant Goodwin, reflecting on the survivor’s loss: “When everyone in your car dies but you, I don’t know how you can handle that.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to notify the victims’ families and provide clarity on the circumstances of this heartbreaking event. The community mourns the loss of lives cut short during what was meant to be a joyful summer day.