Durham police say they are looking for the driver of a vehicle involved in a serious crash that took place Wednesday night. Investigators have released only a handful of details so far and describe the case as an active investigation while officers work the scene. Traffic in the area slowed to a crawl as emergency crews and detectives responded. Police have not yet said whether anyone was critically injured.
What police say
According to CBS17, Durham investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or captured it on video to reach out to detectives. The station reports that officers were canvassing the area for the driver and for evidence shortly after the wreck. At this stage, police have shared only limited information about the vehicle involved or where it might have been headed.
How to help investigators
Guidance on the city’s Public Affairs Unit page notes that people with dash-cam recordings, security footage or eyewitness information should call the department's non-emergency line at 919-560-4600, or the Public Affairs Office at 919-560-4322. The department asks that any video be saved in its original form and not widely shared online so investigators can obtain clean copies. The city also points out that those who want to stay anonymous can use local CrimeStoppers options.
Legal stakes for drivers who flee
Leaving the scene of a crash that causes injury or death can bring serious criminal consequences in North Carolina. Under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-166, a willful failure to stop after a collision that results in serious bodily injury can be charged as a felony and can lead to loss of driving privileges. Investigators say quick tips and unedited video often play a key role in holding drivers accountable in such cases.
Durham's recent hit-and-run cases
The search comes as Durham has handled several prominent hit-and-run investigations in recent months, including a fatal Ellis Road case that led to an arrest earlier this year. Investigators are again asking anyone with information about Wednesday's crash to contact Durham police or send tips through CrimeStoppers.
