Driver dead, passenger hurt after crashing near uptown, police say

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A driver is dead and a passenger is hurt after crashing near uptown early Sunday morning, police said.

Officers responded to the incident just before 3:40 p.m. on the outer loop of East John Belk Freeway near the Third Street exit.

Officials believe the driver was speeding and lost control of the car before traveling off the ride side of the road and striking a guardrail. The car broke through the guardrail and flipped over on its roof in an embankment.

The driver, 19-year-old Jasmine Sanchez, was confirmed dead at the scene, and the passenger was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police said there were lanes closed due to construction at the time, and authorities believe alcohol use also contributed to the crash.

This is an ongoing investigation. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.

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Cox Media Group