Driver charged with DWI in fatal wreck, more charges to come

CHARLOTTE — A fatal accident occurred at the intersection of East Independence Boulevard and Village Lake Drive on Sunday night, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.

Police said two cars were involved, a gray-colored sedan and a red SUV.

According to police, Daniel Roberts, 28, was driving a Saturn at a high rate of speed on Independence.

A Toyota 4Runner made a right onto outbound Independence Boulevard from Village Lake Drive, while having a yellow traffic light, police said. After turning, the Toyota was hit from behind by the Saturn. 

The driver of the Toyota, Scott Howard III, 24, and passenger Jie Brandon Johnson, 24, were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

A third person, Barnette White Jr., 25, died after being ejected from the Toyota.

The Saturn continued to slide down the road before turning sideways and striking a telephone pole. 

Roberts was taken to Carolina's Medical Center for serious injuries.

Witnesses said the Saturn was speeding, estimating it was traveling around 80 mph when it crashed.

"All of a sudden I heard something say 'boom boom boom,' then I looked up. All this done take place and I just said 'Oh Lord what's going on,'" said Frank Sadler.

Roberts was charged with DWI at the hospital.  Upon his release, he will be charged with felony death by vehicle, reckless driving and expired registration plate, police said.

WSOC