BLADEN COUNTY, N.C. A motorcyclist has died following a crash that happened during a law enforcement pursuit at a busy North Carolina intersection.
Crash Details Emerge
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol confirmed that the man killed in the wreck was Coleton Michael Newman, age 20. Sergeant Freeman with the Highway Patrol released the information to local reporters covering the incident.
According to troopers, the crash took place at the intersection of N.C. 87 and Kennedy Store Road. Officials said the call came in shortly after 5 p.m. on Monday, July 6. Newman was riding a motorcycle at the time and was reportedly being pursued by deputies from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators say Newman’s motorcycle collided with a Toyota sedan during the pursuit. The impact of the crash caused Newman to be thrown from his bike. Emergency crews responded quickly, but Newman was pronounced dead at the scene.
Driver Taken To Hospital
The driver of the Toyota involved in the crash was transported to Novant New Hanover Regional Medical Center for treatment. Authorities noted that the injuries sustained by that driver were not considered to be life-threatening. No further details have been released about that individual’s condition or identity.
Soldier Stationed At Fort Bragg
Sergeant Freeman also confirmed that Newman was an active-duty soldier in the U.S. Army. He was stationed at Fort Bragg, located near Fayetteville, North Carolina. Officials have not released additional information about his unit or role within the Army at this time.
As of now, the Highway Patrol has not disclosed why deputies were pursuing Newman before the crash. It also remains unclear whether charges will be filed in connection with the incident or whether an investigation into the pursuit itself will take place.
This story is still developing, and updates are expected as more information becomes available from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and Columbus County officials. Residents in the Bladen County area have expressed concern over the frequency of high-speed pursuits passing through the region, especially near residential intersections like the one where this crash occurred.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the events leading up to the pursuit to come forward. Community members have also been asked to drive cautiously through the area as investigators continue examining the scene and gathering evidence connected to the fatal wreck.
More details will be added to this report once they are confirmed by law enforcement officials.
