Two former North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) troopers, involved in the controversial aftermath of a fatal crash in Raleigh, have been officially dismissed. The troopers, Sgt. Matthew Morrison and Trooper Garrett Macario, were terminated from their duties on June 16, following an in-depth investigation into the crash that led to the death of 31-year-old Tyrone Mason in October of the previous year, as reported by WRAL News. The two had been put on paid administrative leave since January as questions arose concerning their conduct and credibility.
Body camera footage played a crucial role in uncovering the truth behind the incident. According to the footage, Macario attempted to pull over Mason for speeding but turned off his pursuit lights and slowed down instead of rendering aid when Mason lost control of his vehicle and crashed. Macario was later instructed by Morrison to not disclose their pursuit to responding officers from the Raleigh Police Department. This revelation, exposed by CBS 17, led to questions regarding their honesty, ultimately resulting in their dismissal.
The dismissal of the two troopers has been seen as a step towards justice by the family of Tyrone Mason. In a statement released by the family's attorneys, and obtained by ABC11, they articulated, "We must also understand that it is only one step in a long journey towards justice for Ms. Mason, the rest of Tyrone's family, and the people of North Carolina."
In the fallout of the investigation, Wake County District Attorney Lorrin Freeman indicated the actions of Macario and Morrison as "inexcusable," a sentiment underscored by the dismissal of approximately 180 DWI cases that the pair were involved in due to credibility doubts. Despite this, Freeman decided not to press criminal charges, stressing that the evidence would not support a successful prosecution while acknowledging the tarnishing impact such behavior has on the agency's reputation. "In dismissing Trooper Macario and Sgt Morrison from the agency, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol has taken an important step in rebuilding trust with the community," Freeman stated, as voiced in ABC11.
