Teen Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run of 6-Year-Old Girl
A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with felony hit-and-run resulting in death after a 6-year-old girl was fatally struck by his vehicle in Charlotte, North Carolina.
A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of a 6-year-old girl who was struck by a vehicle after getting off a school bus in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department announced the arrest of Lachevis Finnie on Monday.
Finnie was allegedly driving a grey 2013 Mercedes Benz C250 around 3:21 p.m. on Friday when he struck Mariana Espinoza, a student at Devonshire Elementary School. The incident occurred as Espinoza was crossing Barrington Drive at the intersection with Lanecrest Drive in east Charlotte. Police stated that Finnie fled the scene after the collision and did not call 911.
According to an affidavit filed in Mecklenburg District Court, Finnie confessed to striking the child and claimed he fled the scene because he was scared. He told authorities that something had run out in front of his car. Finnie, who is listed as a car wash attendant, was reportedly cooperative with investigators. He was charged with felony hit-and-run resulting in death.
Espinoza was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and passed away the following day. Doorbell camera footage obtained by WBTV captured the car speeding down the street moments before the crash, followed by a piercing scream.
Police identified Finnie as a suspect after stopping his vehicle, which was described as having a sunroof, significant front grille damage, black rims, and a temporary license plate. A separate court filing indicated that Finnie did not possess a valid driver's license. He is currently being held in the Mecklenburg County jail.
During his first court appearance on Tuesday, Finnie's bond was set at $2.5 million. Initially set at $100,000, the bail amount was increased after Espinoza's mother requested a higher sum. Finnie was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation. His mother has reportedly expressed concerns about his mental health.
Espinoza's family has started a GoFundMe fundraiser to help cover medical and funeral expenses. As of Wednesday morning, the campaign had raised approximately $25,400 towards a $30,000 goal. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools district issued a statement expressing grief over the loss and acknowledging the impact on the community.
Finnie did not have an attorney listed in court records, and was appointed a public defender for his initial appearance. His next hearing is scheduled for November 17.
