Impairment suspected after woman dies in crash morning after her birthday

CHARLOTTE — Police are investigating after a woman died in a head-on crash Saturday morning in east Charlotte.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police responded to the crash scene just before 5 a.m. on Eastway Drive near Arnold Drive. They found a 2003 Honda Accord with damage to its front and a 2016 Nissan Versa with significant damage to its front.

Police said the Nissan was driving north on Eastway Drive when its driver, Shi-kerra Nicole Michelle Pickett, 33, drove out of her lane into oncoming traffic. Pickett collided head-on with the Honda, which was driving in the opposite direction.

The Honda’s driver was seriously hurt but is expected to be OK, police said. She was wearing her seatbelt. Police also said speed and impairment do not seem to be contributing factors for her involvement in the crash.

Pickett was pronounced dead at the scene.

CMPD said Pickett was not wearing her seatbelt, driving recklessly and speeding. Police also suspect she was impaired, but toxicology results are pending.

According to CMPD, Friday was Pickett’s birthday.

Anyone who witnessed or has information about the crash should contact Detective Pressley at 704-432-2169, extension 2. The public can also leave information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or by clicking here.

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