October 13, 2011
Last Saturday, a woman was killed and two others were seriously injured after a 95-year-old man ran them over with his pickup truck in the Wal-Mart parking lot in Smithfield, North Carolina.
According to WRAL News, the three women were crossing the street at a crosswalk to enter the store. One of the victims reported hearing an engine rev, and before she could look over her shoulder, the truck was barreling down on them. Paramedics arrived and transported the women to Johnston County Memorial Hospital where one of the victims later died. The other women suffered leg and ankle fractures.
After the accident, the driver told investigators his foot must have slipped off the brake and onto the accelerator of the truck. The elderly man added he has never had an accident in 80 years behind the wheel and should not be charged or lose his license.
Police disagreed and booked the man Tuesday with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle. The crime can carry a sentence or a fine, a license suspension for a year, and probation. Despite her pain and suffering, one of the victims has come out saying the charges are “too harsh” and as long as the man doesn’t drive anymore, that should be enough.
The North Carolina Auto Accident Attorneys with HensonFuerst want to know your opinion on the case. Should the man face charges or just lose his license? Tell us what you think by posting a comment to our Facebook page.