CHARLOTTE, NC – A driver is facing charges following a serious crash on Interstate 485 early Friday morning, in which his vehicle collided with a parked North Carolina State Highway Patrol SUV, shutting down part of the highway for several hours during the morning commute.
The crash occurred near South Boulevard when 33-year-old Willie McClain of York lost control of his car, veering off the road and slamming into the stationary patrol vehicle. The impact sent the marked police SUV crashing into the concrete median barrier. At the time of the incident, Trooper Brad Gaines was inside the patrol car, actively monitoring traffic.
Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, and Medic transported Trooper Gaines to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Gaines, assigned to Troop H, District 5 in Mecklenburg County, is expected to recover fully.
McClain and a three-year-old passenger in his vehicle were both seriously injured in the crash. They were taken to a nearby hospital, where their conditions remain critical. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the child was properly restrained at the time of the crash.
The accident resulted in a prolonged highway closure as law enforcement officers conducted an investigation and crews worked to clear debris. Traffic backups stretched for miles, significantly impacting morning commuters as detours were put in place to reroute vehicles away from the wreckage.
Investigators are working to determine the factors that led to the crash. While the official cause remains under review, authorities are examining whether speed, impairment, or distracted driving played a role in McClain’s loss of control. Charges are pending as officials assess the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Law enforcement officials emphasized the dangers officers face while monitoring highways. Parked patrol cars are strategically stationed to help enforce traffic laws and prevent reckless driving, but they remain at risk of being struck by inattentive or impaired drivers.
The North Carolina Move Over Law mandates that drivers shift lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles with flashing lights on the roadside. Failure to comply with this law can result in fines and criminal charges. Officials urge all motorists to stay alert, drive responsibly, and be cautious when passing emergency responders on highways.
Members of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol expressed relief that Trooper Gaines survived the crash and used the incident as a reminder of the importance of roadside safety. “We’re grateful that our trooper will be okay, but this situation underscores how dangerous these highways can be,” said a spokesperson for the State Highway Patrol.
As McClain remains hospitalized, authorities continue their investigation into the incident. The severity of the crash and the serious injuries sustained by both McClain and the child are being taken into account as officials determine the specific charges he will face.
The crash serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly accidents can happen and the potential consequences of losing control behind the wheel. Whether due to distraction, impairment, or fatigue, a split second can alter lives forever. Law enforcement officials expect to release further details as the investigation progresses and charges are formally announced.
