Driver struck cyclist in the 7300 block before fleeing the scene
December 28, 2025 | Union, NC
Leon Smith, an 83-year-old professor emeritus of communication at Wingate University, lost his life in a hit-and-run incident while cycling in Union County.
What Happened in the Crash?
Leon Smith, 83, a professor emeritus at Wingate University, died after a GMC struck his bicycle and fled the scene on Morgan Mill Road.
On Dec. 28, Smith was riding his bicycle along the 7300 block of Morgan Mill Road around 6:15 p.m. when he was struck by a vehicle driven by a 61-year-old man from Oakboro. The driver was operating either a GMC Yukon SUV or a GMC Sierra pickup truck. Smith suffered fatal injuries and passed away at the scene.
- Date and Time: Dec. 28, 2025, approximately 6:15 p.m.
- Location: 7300 block of Morgan Mill Road, Union, NC
- Victim: Leon Smith, 83, cyclist
- Suspect Vehicle: GMC Yukon SUV or GMC Sierra pickup truck
- Driver: 61-year-old Oakboro resident
- Outcome: Victim deceased, and driver arrested
Authorities responded quickly, and the suspect fled initially but was apprehended on Wednesday. He now faces charges of felony hit-and-run and driving without an operator's license. The Union County Sheriff's Office, alongside the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, continues to investigate the circumstances.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Occur?
Hit-and-run incidents often stem from factors like driver impairment, speeding, or failure to yield to vulnerable road users such as cyclists. Bicyclists face heightened risks due to their lack of protection compared to those in enclosed vehicles.
Hit-and-Run Crash Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hit-and-run fatalities remain a pressing concern. In 2023, 2,872 individuals perished in such crashes, a slight decrease from 2,972 the prior year.
Year |
Hit-and-Run Fatalities |
Notes |
|---|
2023 |
2,872 |
Decline suggests around 2,800 total incidents |
2022 |
2,972 |
Previous high |
Source: NHTSA |
This data underscores the vulnerability of pedestrians and cyclists, with officials noting that even small reductions indicate broader safety improvements.
Legal Insights
In cases such as this involving cyclists and hit-and-run drivers, thorough investigations are crucial to uncover contributing factors.
“Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, and many factors can contribute to serious crashes,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal. “It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses.”
Key takeaways from legal perspectives on motor vehicle crashes:
- Hit-and-run drivers face criminal charges for incidents injuring cyclists or pedestrians.
- Victims' families may pursue civil lawsuits for compensation.
- Legal professionals can assist in reviewing police reports and crash reports.
- Separate from criminal proceedings, wrongful death claims allow survivors to seek damages for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
“Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “An attorney can be a valuable and compassionate resource to help guide a family during this difficult time, and ensure that those left behind receive the restitution they are entitled to.”
Pending investigation outcomes, affected families might explore options for restitution through experienced counsel.
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free, no-obligation consultation.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).