CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A driver is facing charges after the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said he drove off after hitting and killing a bicyclist.
Police responded to South Tryon Street near Steele Creek road around 11:30 p.m. Friday evening. Officers said they found a heavily damaged bicycle on a sidewalk and an unresponsive man identified as Christopher Ryan Starr. Medic declared him dead on the scene.
CMPD's preliminary investigation led them to find that Starr, who was wearing a reflective vest and helmet with a flashing light, was riding his bicycle in the far right outbound lane of South Tryon Street when a white Mazda CX-5 hit him as it traveled in the same direction. Officers said the collision sent Starr airborne before landing on the sidewalk. CMPD said the driver of the Mazda drove off but was later tracked down. Police identified the driver as Christian R. Diaz Castillo.
Castillo is now charged with felony hit and run and involuntary manslaughter. CMPD says speed and reckless driving on Castillo's behalf were contributing factors to the crash, while there were no apparent factors on Starr's behalf. Starr's toxicology report is also still pending.
He pleaded 'guilty' to both charges in August.
Police said Starr's immediate family members have been notified of his death.
The investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with additional information can share it with CMPD by calling (704) 432-2169 Ext# 5 to talk with the detective on the case. Anonymous tips can also be shared with Crime Stoppers by calling (704) 334-1600 or by sharing a tip online.
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