CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in northwest Charlotte on Sunday afternoon, June 8, when 12-year-old Mike Malanda was fatally struck by a truck while riding his dirt bike. The collision occurred shortly after 1:00 p.m. at the intersection of Oakdale Road and Auten Road, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Malanda was operating his dirt bike on the roadway when a Ford pickup truck collided with him. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, the young boy was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities have notified his family, and the community is now grappling with the sudden loss of a vibrant young life.
The exact circumstances that led to the fatal crash remain unclear. Police have not confirmed whether speed, road conditions, or driver error contributed to the accident. Investigators are continuing to collect evidence and speak with witnesses in hopes of determining what caused the devastating incident. As of Monday, no charges had been filed, and it is unknown if the truck driver remained at the scene.
The crash has sparked widespread concern in the local community, particularly in the residential area where it occurred. Residents are calling for enhanced traffic safety measures, including clearer signage and better enforcement of speed limits, to protect pedestrians and young riders in the neighborhood.
Dirt bikes are often designed for off-road use and can be especially dangerous on public roads. This tragedy has reignited conversations about the safety of allowing children and teens to operate such vehicles in high-traffic areas. Advocates are urging parents to ensure proper supervision and to limit the use of dirt bikes to designated off-road locations.
In the wake of Malanda’s death, grief counselors have been made available to support his family, classmates, and neighbors. The community has begun organizing support efforts, although no formal memorial service details have been released at this time.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police continue to investigate and ask that anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information contact them. The city hopes that a thorough review will lead to answers—and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
