Robert Henderson killed in pedestrian crash on South Wilmington Street

Pedestrian fell from bridge onto South Saunders Street after being struck by Honda CR-V

May 04, 2026 | Raleigh, NC

A tragic hit-and-run incident early Monday claimed the life of 59-year-old Robert Jackson Henderson in Raleigh, Wake County. 

The pedestrian was walking along the right shoulder of South Wilmington Street when a blue Honda CR-V struck him at 3:26 a.m., sending him over the bridge railing to South Saunders Street below, where additional vehicles hit him.

Robert Jackson Henderson, 59, died after a Honda CR-V struck him on the shoulder of South Wilmington Street and caused him to fall onto South Saunders Street in Raleigh.

What Happened in the Crash?

The collision occurred at the top of the South Wilmington Street bridge. Henderson fell from the elevated structure following the initial collision, suffering fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency response efforts.

• Date and Time: Early May, 3:26 a.m.
• Location: South Wilmington Street bridge, Raleigh, NC
• Victim: Robert Jackson Henderson, 59, pedestrian
• Vehicle Involved: Blue Honda CR-V
• Driver: Chandler Evan Brown, 22, who fled on foot
• Additional Impacts: Henderson was struck by multiple vehicles on South Saunders Street
• Outcome: Fatal injuries, and the driver was arrested and charged

Raleigh Police Department officials confirmed the details, noting the driver's abandonment of the vehicle on the bridge before fleeing.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Like This Occur?

Hit-and-run crashes often stem from factors such as intoxication, lack of a valid license, or fear of legal consequences. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol impairment and invalid licenses contribute significantly to these incidents.

This table highlights key statistics on pedestrian hit-and-run deaths, underscoring the need for thorough investigations into road conditions, lighting, and signage.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving fatal pedestrian hit-and-runs, national legal analysts emphasize the importance of detailed investigations to establish accountability.

"Having the proper resources is extremely important in order to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence," said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. "Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must thoroughly be examined. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has lost a loved one at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve. An attorney can also ensure that a hit-and-run driver is held accountable for their reckless actions."

• Key Takeaway: Comprehensive evidence collection aids in proving fault and securing compensation.
• Investigation Focus: Examine environmental factors like bridge lighting to identify negligence.
• Driver Accountability: Fleeing the scene often indicates impairment or unlicensed operation, warranting felony charges.

The driver, Chandler Evan Brown, 22, was apprehended shortly after and now faces felony hit-and-run, felony death by vehicle, driving while impaired (DWI), failure to maintain lane control, and failure to reduce speed.

Potential Wrongful Death Claim

Families of victims in tragic accidents like this may pursue wrongful death claims to seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

"We understand what victims must go through, and knowing your rights and protecting them is vital. As experienced wrongful death lawyers, we will do the work for you, providing up-to-date information as to any ongoing investigation and proactively protecting your legal rights and best interests," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.

Formica added: "Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights. 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. An attorney can protect victims from large insurance companies and their team of lawyers while diligently examining the facts of the accident. An attorney will vigorously advocate for a family who has lost a loved one, ensuring that their legal rights are protected."

The investigation by Raleigh Police remains ongoing, with authorities urging witnesses to come forward.

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