The community of Concord is in shock after a tragic crash late Monday night claimed the life of 40-year-old Calvin Leon Costner. Costner, an innocent driver, was killed when his vehicle was struck by a suspected impaired driver fleeing a traffic stop. Authorities are now searching for the individual responsible for this devastating incident, which has left family, friends, and neighbors grieving.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the events unfolded around 11 p.m. along George Liles Parkway and Interstate 85. Troopers initially spotted the suspect’s vehicle speeding at 111 miles per hour on I-85 and attempted a traffic stop. Upon approaching the vehicle, the trooper observed signs of impairment. However, before the officer could further assess the situation, the driver suddenly fled the scene, prompting a high-speed pursuit that continued onto George Liles Parkway.
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The suspect ran a red light at high speed, colliding directly with Costner’s Cadillac, which was traveling through the intersection. The impact was catastrophic, with the Cadillac bursting into flames. Responding officers rushed to rescue Costner, managing to pull him from the wreckage. Tragically, despite their heroic efforts, Costner succumbed to his injuries at the scene. One officer suffered minor burns during the rescue attempt but is expected to recover. No other injuries were reported.
The crash prompted a closure of a portion of George Liles Parkway between Exchange Street and Kannapolis Highway, which remained shut down until approximately 4:45 a.m. as investigators worked to gather evidence and assess the damage caused by the high-speed collision. The shutdown highlighted the seriousness of the incident, and many community members have described the tragedy as both preventable and heartbreaking.
The suspect, who fled the crash site on foot, remains at large as of Tuesday morning. State Highway Patrol officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. They are reviewing surveillance footage, examining vehicle evidence, and interviewing witnesses to help locate the individual responsible for the deadly crash.
As news of Costner’s death spreads, the community has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a man whose life was tragically cut short due to reckless and impaired driving. Friends, family, and neighbors have shared tributes to Costner, remembering him as a kind and hardworking individual. This tragedy stands as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving, and the community now awaits justice for the loss of one of their own.