Eden, NC (April 25, 2025) – A devastating crash involving a City of Eden dump truck left four pedestrians dead and three others injured Thursday afternoon at a busy intersection in Rockingham County, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of Church Street, Carroll Street, and Park Road. Authorities say Michael Ray Vernon, 66, was driving a City of Eden dump truck northbound on Carroll Street when he failed to stop at a stop sign and struck six pedestrians standing near the intersection.
The pedestrians were identified as:
- Douglas Garland Sands, 72
- Madison Carter, 47
- William Evans, 35
- Matthew Lockwood, 30
- Hunter Carter, 24
- Kevin Alexander, 34
Sadly, Sands, Madison Carter, Evans, and Lockwood were pronounced dead from their injuries. Hunter Carter remains hospitalized with serious injuries, and Kevin Alexander is reported to be in stable condition.
After hitting the pedestrians, the dump truck continued north, collided with an occupied bucket truck, and eventually crashed into a ditch. Vernon sustained minor injuries.
The pedestrians were confirmed to be contractors for Duke Energy, which released a statement expressing their condolences and emphasizing their ongoing cooperation with authorities.
Legal Considerations: Vernon has been charged with a stop sign violation and misdemeanor death by motor vehicle. In fatal accidents involving municipal vehicles and clear traffic violations, surviving victims and families of the deceased may have grounds to file wrongful death and personal injury claims against the driver and the City of Eden.
Such cases often involve detailed reviews of driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance records, and workplace policies.
Ongoing Investigation: Although initial reports indicate that impairment was not a factor, the crash remains under investigation by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Additional charges may be filed pending further findings.
My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of Douglas Garland Sands, Madison Carter, William Evans, Matthew Lockwood, and wishes for the recovery of Hunter Carter and Kevin Alexander.
Source: WRAL News