A tragic accident on Sharon View Road, Charlotte, has left the community in mourning following the death of an 11-year-old girl and injuries to several others. The accident, which occurred over the weekend, involved a head-on collision between a BMW and a GMC Acadia. Emergency responders swiftly arrived at the scene and transported five people to local hospitals for treatment. The accident’s aftermath has left both families and the local school community grappling with the loss and injuries.
Charlotte Fire Department’s Medic reported that five individuals, including three juveniles, were rushed to nearby hospitals. Sadly, 11-year-old Emery Catherine Layson, a student at Carmel Middle School, did not survive. She was traveling in the BMW and was pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg School (CMS) district issued a statement on Monday, expressing their sorrow and offering condolences to the Layson family, as well as the broader school community. “This is a difficult time for everyone at the school and in the neighborhood,” CMS acknowledged, urging for support and understanding as they navigate this tragic loss.
According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), the driver of the BMW, identified as a 50-year-old woman, sustained serious injuries. She remains under medical care. Another juvenile passenger in the same vehicle, who has not been named publicly, sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the GMC Acadia, a 48-year-old woman, and her juvenile passenger, were also treated for non-life-threatening injuries at the hospital. Both families involved are expected to face a long recovery, both physically and emotionally, following the horrific event.
CMPD investigators have shared some initial findings regarding the cause of the crash. It is believed that the BMW was traveling eastbound on Sharon View Road when, for reasons not yet confirmed, it crossed the center line, colliding head-on with the GMC Acadia. Police have stated that neither excessive speed nor impairment are suspected to have played a role in the accident. However, they emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages, and further details could emerge in the coming days.
Authorities continue to work diligently to piece together the events leading up to the crash. CMPD has urged anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information about the moments leading up to the collision to come forward. Detective Worthy, who is leading the investigation, can be contacted at 704-432-2169, Ext. 4. Alternatively, those wishing to provide anonymous tips can reach out to Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
The community has been urged to remain patient as investigators complete their work. Any updates on the investigation will be provided as soon as new information becomes available. It is crucial for anyone with knowledge of the incident to assist authorities in determining the exact cause of this tragic event.
The loss of young Emery Catherine Layson has deeply affected the Carmel Middle School community. CMS officials have implemented support services for grieving students, staff, and families as they process the devastating news. In situations like these, schools often provide grief counselors and additional support staff to help students manage their emotions.
A growing number of local community members have already expressed their sorrow and solidarity with the Layson family, with some planning candlelight vigils and memorials to honor the young student’s memory. At times of tragedy, such gestures of kindness and support often provide the families affected with a small degree of comfort.
While authorities continue their investigation, this accident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of life on the roads. Even when no negligence or reckless behavior is involved, accidents like this can have life-altering consequences. As the investigation unfolds, Charlotte residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and offer support to those in need.
This is still a developing story. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.