Police Investigate Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash on North Tryon Street in Northeast Charlotte Overnight

What investigators say happened

Detectives are investigating a fatal hit-and-run crash reported early Sunday in northeast Charlotte, where a pedestrian was found dead at the scene and at least one vehicle had significant damage.

Officers were called to the 4300 block of North Tryon Street at about 12:50 a.m. After arriving, responders located an unresponsive pedestrian in the roadway along with a heavily damaged 2007 Chrysler 300. The pedestrian, identified as 74-year-old Ace Nathaniel Chambers, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said another vehicle involved in the crash left the area before officers arrived. Investigators have not released a description of the vehicle that fled, nor have they announced any arrests connected to the hit-and-run portion of the case.

Driver charged after remaining at the scene

The driver of the Chrysler, 35-year-old Willie Sturdivant, remained on scene and was screened for impairment. Police charged Sturdivant with driving while impaired after determining he was impaired.

Police also reported that two juveniles were passengers in the Chrysler. No additional information was released about the children’s conditions or whether they required medical treatment.

Key unanswered questions

As the investigation continues, several critical issues remain unresolved. Police said it is not yet known whether speed or impairment contributed to the crash overall. Investigators also have not publicly detailed how the collision sequence unfolded, including how the pedestrian and vehicles came into contact and where the Chrysler was positioned at the time of impact.

Hit-and-run investigations typically depend on physical evidence collected at the scene, canvassing nearby businesses and residences for surveillance video, and speaking with witnesses who may have seen the fleeing vehicle in the moments after the crash.

• Crash location: 4300 block of North Tryon Street
• Time officers were called: about 12:50 a.m.
• Fatality: 74-year-old pedestrian Ace Nathaniel Chambers
• Vehicle located at scene: 2007 Chrysler 300 with heavy damage

How to share information

Police are asking anyone who witnessed the collision or has information that could help identify the vehicle that left the scene to contact the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department at 704-432-2169, Extension 3.

The case remains active, and additional details are expected as investigators complete evidence collection and follow up on leads.