Prison awaits man who attempted suicide while holding child

CHARLOTTE (AP) — A Charlotte man has been sentenced to at least nine years in prison after police say he tried to kill himself on Interstate 77 while carrying his 2-year-old daughter.

Police say 30-year-old Derrick Summers walked into traffic Jan. 15.

Summers pleaded guilty Wednesday to attempted first-degree murder. He was sentenced to between nine and 12 years in prison.

Summers was hit by a vehicle, and he and his daughter suffered serious injuries. Prosecutors said Wednesday the girl is still recovering.

Authorities said Summers was trying to kill himself. Prosecutors said he had sent a text message to people earlier in the day saying he intended to kill himself and his daughter.

The child’s mother had filed a restraining order against Summers earlier that month.