A Mecklenburg County District Attorney's Office staffer has been charged with felony death by vehicle after a fatal crash Saturday morning, prompting her immediate termination and a request for a special prosecutor to take over the case.

Johana Martinez, who served in a non-attorney role with the office, was involved in a crash that killed the driver of another vehicle, according to a statement released by the district attorney's office. The district attorney's office did not disclose where the crash happened.

The State Highway Patrol secured criminal warrants against Martinez following the crash.

District Attorney Merriweather announced Martinez's termination shortly after learning of the crash, citing a conflict between the pending charges and the ethical standards expected of those who work in law enforcement, according to a release from the DA.

To avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest, DA Merriweather formally requested that a special prosecutor from outside the office be appointed to handle the case against Martinez. The district attorney's office acknowledged that those charged with a crime retain the right to a fair trial but said the severity of the allegations left no room for Martinez to remain in her position.

"We are devastated for the family of the slain driver, and they remain in our prayers in this hour of loss," the office said in its statement.

The district attorney's office said Martinez is facing additional charges, but has not made them available.

The investigation remains ongoing.

WCNC Charlotte has reached out to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol for information.

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