Troopers: Trucker hit, killed trying to help crash victim on I-85

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Part of Interstate 85 North near the Little Rock Road exit was shut down early Friday morning in west Charlotte after a truck driver who was trying to help another driver involved in a crash was hit and killed.

Troopers said the driver of an 18-wheeler heading north on I-85 was hit from behind by a silver Acura near Little Rock Road.

The Acura came to rest in the left shoulder, while the driver of the semi, Charles Eugene Smith of Virginia, pulled over on the right shoulder.

Troopers said the 59-year-old truck driver then got out and walked across the highway to try and help the person in the car, but Smith was struck by another tractor-trailer and died.

The driver of the car, charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, was taken to the hospital with serious injuries and officials.

The driver of the other tractor-trailer, Andrew Elton of Georgia, that struck the victim was also hospitalized but will be OK. He is not facing any charges.

The northbound lanes of the interstate were reopened around 5:15 a.m.

The driver of the Acura could be charged in connection with Smith's death.

Check back with wsoctv.com for updates on this story.

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