A pedestrian killed Wednesday evening after being struck by a vehicle at an east Charlotte intersection has been identified as Lance Sotelo, 25, according to information confirmed by Qnotes. The crash occurred near the intersection of East 36th Street and The Plaza.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department reported the fatal crash involving a pedestrian shortly after 6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14. Officers responded after receiving reports of a person struck by a vehicle.
“Our community has suffered a profound loss,” said Erica Chanel, a local drag performer and former Miss Charlotte Pride 2024.
The driver who struck and killed Sotelo has been identified as Q’Laundra Kadri Hood, 28. She turned herself in to local authorities Thursday, January 15, and is now facing charges of felony hit-and-run, involuntary manslaughter, driving without a license and failing to stop at a red light.
Sotelo’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance across social media, where friends, classmates, and community members shared tributes. Details confirmed by Qnotes indicate Sotelo earned his MBA from Queens University of Charlotte in May 2025. During his time at Queens, he served as student body president and competed on the university’s track and field team.
In November 2025, Sotelo completed the Charlotte Marathon, an accomplishment several people referenced in messages honoring his dedication to athletics and personal growth. Friends described him as deeply engaged in campus life and known for encouraging others.
Charlotte City Councilmember JD Mazuera Arias, who said he attended Queens University of Charlotte at the same time as Sotelo, released a public statement following the crash. In it, Arias described the roadway as part of Charlotte’s High Injury Network and called for stronger action to address pedestrian safety.
“This was … preventable,” Arias wrote. “When we design streets that prioritize speed over safety, we make choices that cost lives.”
Arias also called for accountability in the aftermath of the crash. “If human life had been the priority at that intersection, this likely would not have happened,” he wrote.
The Charlotte LGBTQ+ nightclub Scorpio, which Sotelo was known to frequent, released these words in a statement: “One of our regulars was tragically killed in a hit and run last night in NODA. Our hearts are with their partner, loved ones and all who have been affected. Life is short. Be kind to one another, look out for one another. Love each other loudly. Please hold your people a little closer this weekend.”
“Lance was a bright light – kind, genuine and deeply loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” Chanel continued. “His presence touched so many lives and he will never be forgotten. This evening we will hold a candlelight vigil … please feel free to bring flowers, photos, candles or anything meaningful that honors Lance’s life and his memory. Your presence matters and your support means more than words can express.”
The candlelight vigil was held January 15 at 7:30 p.m., beginning at the nightclub Chasers (3217 The Plaza) followed by a walk to the corner where the incident occurred.