Fatal Collision in Smithfield Parking Lot Leads to Multiple Charges
A tragic incident occurred Friday evening in Smithfield, North Carolina, when a pedestrian was struck and killed by a pickup truck in a grocery store parking lot. According to the Smithfield Police Department, officers responded to the scene around 5:30 p.m. on the 800 block of West Market Street at the local Food Lion store. The collision involved a GMC Sierra pickup truck that struck pedestrian Dian Hovland as she was crossing the parking lot.
Upon investigation, authorities confirmed that Hovland succumbed to injuries sustained during the collision. The driver of the GMC Sierra, identified as Steven White, was subsequently charged with driving while impaired and felony death by motor vehicle. These charges suggest that alcohol or other impairing substances may have played a role in the accident.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers present in seemingly safe environments like grocery store parking lots. It also highlights the critical importance of road safety and responsible driving practices, even in non-public road settings.
The Smithfield Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event. As details emerge, the community is left to grapple with the consequences of such incidents and the impact on those involved and their families.
