A tragic accident occurred on Friday evening in Smithfield when a woman was struck by a pickup truck in front of a Food Lion store located along U.S. Highway Business 70. The incident happened around 5:30 p.m., claiming the life of Dian Hovland, who had just left the store and was entering the parking lot when she was hit by a GMC Sierra.
Steven White, the driver of the GMC Sierra, was subsequently charged with driving while impaired (DWI) and felony death by motor vehicle. White remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities during their investigation, which required part of the parking lot to be temporarily blocked off.
The Food Lion store was forced to close temporarily following the crash. Officers conducted a thorough investigation at the scene, gathering necessary information before allowing the store to resume operations.
The incident highlights the importance of road safety, particularly in areas surrounding busy commercial establishments. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
