NTSB: Deadly I-485 wreck was caused by teen driver who was speeding and high

CHARLOTTE, N.C.  – The NTSB has released its final report on a deadly July 2025 multi-vehicle collision on I-485 outer near Wilkinson Boulevard.

Investigators determined the probable cause was risky driving by a 16-year-old SUV driver who was impaired by cannabis and speeding.

The teen’s vehicle struck a minivan, forcing both vehicles into a semi-truck illegally parked on the right shoulder. The driver and four passengers in the minivan, along with the SUV driver, were killed.

Officials say the illegally parked truck eliminated any chance for the drivers to safely recover from the initial impact.

The NTSB highlighted that the semi-truck had pulled over for a non-emergency event. State law prohibits parking on the shoulder except in an actual emergency.