CMPD officer suffers minor injury after being struck during early-morning street takeover at south Charlotte parking lot

Officer struck as police moved to break up parking-lot “takeover”

A Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officer suffered minor injuries after being hit by a vehicle while responding to an illegal “street takeover” early Sunday morning in south Charlotte, police said. The incident unfolded around 3 a.m. in the parking lot of a Harris Teeter on Smith Farm Road, where drivers were reported doing donuts, burnouts and other high-risk maneuvers.

Cellphone video from the scene shows an officer approaching a vehicle moments before the driver accelerated, knocking the officer off his feet. The officer landed on the hood and then slid off, ultimately getting back to his feet. Police said the officer is expected to be OK.

Arrest made after driver fled, police say

Police identified the driver as Tanaezah Auston and said she fled after the collision. CMPD arrested her Monday, following what police described as multiple arrests connected to the takeover. Police have not released a full list of charges in the case or provided additional details about how Auston was located and taken into custody.

Witnesses described visible tire marks and damage patterns left in the parking lot, situated between the grocery store and nearby retail businesses.

Two others seriously hurt; extent of injuries not detailed

In addition to the officer being struck, MEDIC reported that two people were seriously injured during the same event. Authorities have not publicly described how those injuries occurred, whether they were participants or bystanders, or whether any additional criminal charges are expected in connection with those injuries.

Street takeovers: enforcement and the risk profile

Street takeovers generally involve groups of drivers and spectators gathering—often at intersections or large parking lots—to watch or participate in stunts that can include drifting, spinning donuts, and blocking traffic lanes. The events can shift quickly from one location to another and may draw large crowds, complicating traffic control and enforcement.

CMPD has previously warned that both participants and spectators can face citations or arrest, and that vehicles involved may be subject to seizure depending on circumstances and applicable law.

• Location: Harris Teeter parking lot on Smith Farm Road, Charlotte

• Time: About 3 a.m. Sunday

• CMPD officer injury: Minor; expected to recover

• Additional injuries: Two people reported seriously hurt by MEDIC

• Arrest: Police said Tanaezah Auston was arrested Monday

Police have not released detailed charging documents or a full accounting of arrests tied to the incident.

The investigation remains active, and police have indicated they are continuing to review evidence and determine whether further charges or arrests are warranted.