A 25-year-old woman is facing felony charges after authorities say she struck a police officer with a vehicle while officers were responding to a reported street takeover in Charlotte, North Carolina.
According to Mecklenburg County court records, Tanaezah Michelle Austin has been charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon on a government officer.
The incident occurred during an early-morning police response to a disturbance reported outside a grocery store parking lot.
Police Response to Reported Street Takeover
According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, officers responded at approximately 3:25 a.m. on Sunday, March 1, following multiple 911 calls reporting a disturbance outside the Harris Teeter located at 4701 Smith Farm Road.
When officers arrived at the location, police reported finding what they described as a street takeover event taking place in the parking lot.
Street takeovers generally involve groups of vehicles gathering in public roadways or parking areas where drivers may perform stunts such as spinning, drifting, or blocking traffic.
Officers began efforts to clear the parking lot and disperse vehicles, according to court documents.
Alleged Vehicle Strike of Officer
Investigators stated that during the effort to disperse vehicles, an officer approached a black Kia Optima that was attempting to leave the area. The vehicle was allegedly being driven by Austin.
Court documents state that the officer exited his patrol vehicle and approached the Kia as it attempted to depart the scene.
According to investigators:
- The officer approached the vehicle while it was stopped.
- Austin allegedly initially complied and stopped the vehicle.
- As the officer walked in front of the car toward the driver’s side, the vehicle reportedly accelerated.
- Investigators say the vehicle struck the officer.
- The officer was reportedly forced onto the hood of the vehicle and rolled over it.
Authorities stated that the officer sustained injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment. The extent of the officer’s injuries has not been publicly disclosed.
Criminal Charge Filed
Following the incident, Austin was charged with:
- Felony assault with a deadly weapon on a government officer
Under North Carolina law, a motor vehicle can be classified as a deadly weapon when used in a manner capable of causing serious injury or death.
Court documents indicate the charge stems from the alleged use of the vehicle during the encounter with the officer.
Arrest and Bond Information
According to Mecklenburg County jail records, Austin was booked into the Mecklenburg County Jail on March 2.
Court records indicate she was later released shortly before 3:00 a.m. on March 3 after posting a $3,000 secured bond.
Street Takeovers and Law Enforcement Response
Street takeovers have become a recurring issue in several U.S. cities in recent years. These events often involve large groups of vehicles gathering spontaneously in public locations.
Law enforcement agencies frequently respond to these gatherings due to reports of:
- Reckless driving or drifting
- Obstructed roadways or parking lots
- Crowd control concerns
- Potential risks to bystanders and participants
Police departments across the country have implemented various enforcement strategies to address these gatherings, including targeted patrols and coordinated dispersal efforts.
Current Status
As of the most recent available court records:
- Tanaezah Michelle Austin has been formally charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon on a government officer.
- She was released from custody after posting a $3,000 bond.
- Further court proceedings are expected in Mecklenburg County.
- Authorities have not publicly released additional details about the officer’s injuries.
The investigation into the incident remains subject to the normal judicial process.
FAQ
What charge is Austin facing?
Austin is charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon on a government officer, according to Mecklenburg County court records.
Where did the incident occur?
Police reported the incident occurred outside the Harris Teeter located at 4701 Smith Farm Road in Charlotte, North Carolina.
What is a street takeover?
Street takeovers generally involve groups of vehicles gathering in public spaces where drivers perform stunts such as drifting or blocking traffic while spectators gather nearby.
Was the officer injured?
Authorities confirmed the officer was transported to a hospital for treatment after being struck by the vehicle. Additional information about the severity of the injuries has not been released.
Is Austin currently in custody?
Court records indicate Austin posted a $3,000 bond and was released from the Mecklenburg County Jail on March 3.
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