LEXINGTON, N.C. — The Lexington community is mourning the tragic loss of Barbara Hartwell, who died following a weather-related crash Saturday night on South Main Street near the railroad overpass by Wilfred Avenue.
According to Lexington police, officers responded around 9 p.m. Saturday to a single-vehicle crash in the area. Investigators said a vehicle traveling southbound left the roadway, went down an embankment, and struck Hartwell as she walked along the sidewalk.
Due to wintry conditions, tow personnel were unable to remove the vehicle from the scene that night. At the time of the crash, police reported that all occupants of the vehicle were accounted for. Two juvenile passengers were taken to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Around 10 a.m. Sunday, officers returned to the scene after a body was reported in the wooded area near the crash site. The victim was identified as Barbara Hartwell, a resident of Lexington. She was pronounced dead as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.
The heartbreaking loss has left family, friends, and community members grieving a life taken far too soon. As loved ones mourn, authorities continue working to understand the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Lexington police said they are conferring with the District Attorney’s Office regarding possible charges. The investigation remains ongoing.
