A tragic hit-and-run incident in east Charlotte claimed the life of 25-year-old Lance Sotelo on January 14, 2026, when 28-year-old Q’Laundra Hood allegedly ran a red light at The Plaza and East 36th Street around 5:45 p.m.
Incident Details
Officers found Sotelo severely injured in the roadway; he was pronounced dead at the scene. Hood, driving a white Chevrolet Impala, struck him while fleeing southwest on The Plaza before turning herself in the next day at CMPD’s Hickory Grove Division.
Charges Filed
Hood faces felony hit-and-run, involuntary manslaughter, driving without an operator’s license, and failing to stop at a red light. Speed is suspected as a factor, though impairment status remains unknown.
Legal Status
Authorities set a $100,000 secured bond for Hood, who is held at Mecklenburg County Detention Center, with her initial court appearance on January 16, 2026.
Investigation Update
The case remains active; contact Detective Simmons at 704-432-2169 ext. 3 with tips. Local discussions highlight pedestrian safety concerns in the area.
