Truck driver accused of hindering investigation after crash that killed CMPD officer

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — One of the truck drivers accused in the crash that killed CMPD Officer Mia Goodwin should have never been behind the wheel of the 18-wheeler in the first place, according to court documents.

Daniel Leon Morgan, 50, was charged for his involvement in the deadly crash that happened during the early morning hours on Dec. 22 on Interstate 85 in north Charlotte.

Authorities said Morgan was speeding down the interstate in his tractor-trailer when he hit another semi-truck. That collision struck four Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department vehicles. Officer Goodwin, who recently returned to work following maternity leave, died at the scene and three other officers were hurt.

New court documents allege Morgan not only tried to walk away from the scene, but detectives said he also removed a tracking device from the dashboard to hinder the investigation.

The documents also reveal Morgan’s tractor-trailer wasn’t supposed to be on the road and officers accused him of placing a fake tag on it. Police also said he did not move over for officers. Channel 9 checked the records office and it appears Morgan does not have his commercial driver’s license.

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Police charged Morgan with involuntary manslaughter, misdemeanor death by vehicle, failure to reduce speed, and felony failure to move over for stopped emergency vehicles. He has since been released from jail on bond.

Channel 9 reached out to Morgan’s attorney regarding the latest allegations and he sent the following statement:

“There is a time for all things. This is a time to mourn, reflect, and pay tribute to Officer Goodwin’s life. There are no words that can express the extent of Mr. Morgan’s sorrow.”

The funeral for Goodwin will be held Wednesday with visitation starting at 10 a.m., followed by the funeral at noon. The services are being held at First Baptist Church on South Davidson Street and is open to the public.

(WATCH BELOW: CMPD Officer Mia Goodwin honored with procession, memorial; here’s how you can help)

CMPD Officer Mia Goodwin honored with procession, memorial; here’s how you can help

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