Charlotte, NC (July 24, 2025) – Two Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers were injured on Tuesday evening, July 22, after a suspected impaired driver crashed into their patrol car on East Independence Boulevard, close to Bojangles Coliseum.
Both officers suffered head trauma and injuries to their lower bodies, according to the arrest warrant. Their police vehicle was badly damaged on the front passenger side.
Authorities identified the driver as 36-year-old Thomas Royster. His car also sustained major damage. While his exact condition remains unclear, his mugshot revealed a large bandage on his head and visible facial injuries.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has not released further details. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the full cause of the crash.
Our thoughts are with the officers as they recover from their injuries.
DUI-Related Accidents in Charlotte
Driving under the influence continues to be a major threat on Charlotte’s roads. Incidents like the recent crash on East Independence Blvd—where two officers were seriously injured—underscore just how dangerous impaired driving can be.
Charlotte consistently sees a high number of DUI-related accidents each year. According to North Carolina’s Department of Transportation, alcohol played a role in over 11,000 crashes statewide in 2023 alone. Mecklenburg County, home to Charlotte, remains one of the leading counties for such incidents.
When a DUI crash occurs, the consequences are often devastating. Victims can suffer traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and long-term psychological effects. In some cases, the victims are public servants, like the officers injured in this recent case—individuals who dedicate their lives to protecting the community and should not have to endure such risks on duty.
Victims of DUI crashes may be eligible to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. This could include coverage for:
- Emergency medical care and future treatment needs
- Lost wages or loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
In cases where the impaired driver acted with extreme recklessness, additional punitive damages may be available.
Whether you’re a civilian or a police officer injured by a drunk driver, seeking legal help can be vital. An experienced attorney can help victims understand their rights, investigate the accident, and hold the at-fault driver accountable. For those harmed in similar incidents, connecting with a car accident attorney may also be helpful, especially if the driver attempts to flee the scene.
DUI crashes are preventable tragedies. Community awareness, stronger enforcement, and legal accountability all play a role in reducing their frequency. If you or someone you know has been impacted by an impaired driver in Charlotte, resources are available to help you recover and protect your rights.
At Campbell & Associates, we are ready to take on your case and help you achieve justice and collect compensation. We will stop at nothing to get you reimbursement for medical bills and other losses arising from your crash. Call us at 704-333-0885 to get started.
