Woman Charged for Striking Officer During Street Takeover

Tanaezah Austin released on $3,000 bond after alleged assault on police

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:35am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged car side mirror, the glass cracked and reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a violent encounter between a driver and a police officer.A damaged car mirror reflects the harsh reality of street takeovers and the violence they can unleash on law enforcement.Charlotte Today

A 25-year-old woman in Charlotte, North Carolina is facing felony charges for allegedly striking a police officer with her vehicle during a street takeover incident. Authorities say Tanaezah Austin briefly stopped her car when approached by the officer, then accelerated forward and made contact with the officer, knocking him onto the vehicle's hood. Austin was arrested and charged with felony assault using a deadly weapon against a government official, but was later released after posting a $3,000 bond.

Why it matters

Street takeovers have become an increasing problem in many cities, with large crowds gathering to watch drivers perform dangerous stunts and maneuvers that often put bystanders and law enforcement at risk. This incident highlights the potential for violence and the challenges police face in responding to these events.

The details

According to investigators, officers were called to respond to reports of reckless driving and a large crowd gathered for a street takeover event. When one officer approached Austin's car as it was attempting to leave, she briefly stopped the vehicle before accelerating forward and striking the officer, causing non-life-threatening injuries.

  • The incident occurred on April 2, 2026.

The players

Tanaezah Austin

A 25-year-old Charlotte, North Carolina resident who was charged with felony assault using a deadly weapon against a government official for allegedly striking a police officer with her vehicle during a street takeover incident.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the street takeover event and arrested Austin.

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What they’re saying

“We must take a strong stance against those who endanger our officers and our community through reckless and violent behavior.”

— Chief Johnny Jennings, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department

What’s next

The case against Tanaezah Austin will continue to move through the court system in the coming weeks, with a judge set to determine if she will remain out on bond or be held in custody until her trial.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing problem of street takeovers and the risks they pose to both law enforcement and the public. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether repeat offenders should be released on bond, especially when accused of violent crimes against officers.