New Details Emerge in Fatal Accident on Freedom Drive, Charges Filed

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has released additional information regarding the tragic accident that claimed the lives of two individuals on Freedom Drive in west Charlotte. The fatal collision occurred on October 30, 2024, at approximately 8:13 a.m. in the 3200 block of Freedom Drive, directly in front of a Pizza Hut.

According to police reports, the accident involved a Mitsubishi driven by 67-year-old Gregory Matthew Thompson, who was accompanied by 70-year-old Connie Lee Yates. Tragically, both Thompson and Yates were pronounced dead at the scene due to the severe impact of the collision. Their untimely passing has left family, friends, and the Charlotte community reeling from the loss.

The driver of the other vehicle involved, identified as 34-year-old Tajarvis Deonte Wall, was operating a Dodge at the time of the incident. Wall, along with a young girl who was a passenger in his vehicle, sustained injuries that were deemed non-life-threatening. Both were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, where they are expected to make a full recovery.

Preliminary investigations suggest that Wall collided with Thompson’s vehicle while it was attempting to make a U-turn. Excessive speed on Wall’s part is believed to have been a major factor in the accident. The impact of the crash led to the tragic outcomes for Thompson and Yates, and has raised serious questions about road safety and responsible driving on Freedom Drive.

Following the investigation, Wall faces a series of charges in connection with the incident. These charges include two counts of misdemeanor death by vehicle, driving without a valid license, improper lane usage, violations related to child safety seats, speeding, and a window tint infraction. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has reported that Wall was granted a $100,000 unsecured bond.

As a result of the collision, inbound lanes on Freedom Drive were closed for approximately five hours to allow emergency crews to clear the wreckage and conduct a thorough investigation. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations, especially concerning speed limits, to prevent further accidents of this nature.

This tragic incident has highlighted the critical need for road safety and compliance with traffic laws to protect all individuals on the road. The Charlotte community is left mourning the lives lost while reflecting on the importance of vigilance and responsibility behind the wheel.