Driver Turns Himself in After Striking Farm Workers Outside North Carolina Walmart
LINCOLNTON, N.C. — In a surprising turn of events, the driver responsible for striking six farm workers outside a Walmart in Lincolnton, North Carolina, turned himself in to authorities on Monday. Daniel Gonzalez, 68, of Hickory, claimed the incident was an accident and that he fled the scene in a state of panic, according to the Lincolnton Police Department.
The Incident and Gonzalez’s Arrest
The incident occurred on Sunday when a compact, dark-colored SUV struck six farm workers who were shopping at the Walmart. The workers were in the United States under an agricultural visa for seasonal farm work, according to their employer, Jeff Crotts of Knob Creek Farm in Lawndale. Fortunately, the injuries sustained by the victims were non-life-threatening, and they were taken to the hospital for treatment.
Initially, authorities believed the collisions might have been intentional, and they shared security footage of the offending SUV, speculating that the driver might be an older white man. The FBI was called in to assist with the investigation. However, the situation took a dramatic turn on Monday when Lincolnton Interim Police Chief Brian R. Greene announced that the driver might be Hispanic or Latino.
Family Accompanies Gonzalez as He Surrenders
Daniel Gonzalez’s family members accompanied him as he turned himself in early Monday evening, the police said. According to relatives, Gonzalez claimed the collisions were unintentional and that he fled the scene in a state of panic. He was subsequently arrested for felony hit-and-run and later released on a $50,000 bond, the Lincolnton Police Department stated.
Prosecutors and Detectives Consulted on Charges
Initially, Gonzalez was labeled a person of interest in the case. However, the police later identified him as the suspect they had been searching for. Detectives collaborated with prosecutors to determine the appropriate charges, ultimately recommending felony hit-and-run.
Gratitude to Assisting Agencies and Car Dealerships
The Lincolnton Police Department expressed their gratitude to the FBI, the State Bureau of Investigation, and several car dealerships for their assistance in tracking down the SUV used in the collisions. The collective efforts of these agencies and businesses were crucial in helping law enforcement locate the suspect.
Finding Competent Lincolnton, North Carolina Accident Attorneys
If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident in Lincolnton, North Carolina, finding the right legal representation can be crucial. Accidents can lead to serious injuries, medical expenses, and emotional distress, and victims need a skilled attorney who can help them navigate the legal process and fight for their rights.
When searching for the most competent Lincolnton, North Carolina accident attorneys, look no further than USAttorneys.com. With a comprehensive database of experienced attorneys specializing in accident cases, USAttorneys.com is the go-to platform for those seeking top-notch legal representation in the Lincolnton area.
Conclusion:
Accidents can happen at any time, and they can leave victims and their families facing physical, emotional, and financial challenges. In the case of the Walmart incident involving the farm workers in Lincolnton, North Carolina, the driver turned himself in after authorities initially believed the collisions might have been intentional. However, it was later revealed that the driver claimed the incident was an accident and that he fled in panic.
When accidents occur, seeking the guidance of a skilled attorney is crucial to ensure that victims receive the compensation and justice they deserve. For those in Lincolnton, North Carolina, facing the aftermath of an accident, USAttorneys.com provides an extensive database of competent North Carolina accident attorneys who can help navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight for the rights of the injured.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident in Lincolnton, North Carolina, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance of qualified accident attorneys. With the right legal support, you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life after an unfortunate incident.
