FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — A Friday night crash at a busy intersection in Fayetteville has claimed the life of a 25-year-old motorcyclist, and authorities have since arrested a suspect in connection with the deadly hit-and-run.
According to the Fayetteville Police Department, the collision occurred around 10:17 p.m. at the intersection of Ramsey Street and Fernwood Drive. Investigators said a 2025 Honda CB750 motorcycle was traveling south on Ramsey Street with a green light when it was struck by a 2013 Nissan Altima attempting to turn left onto Fernwood Drive. The driver of the Nissan fled the scene following the impact.
The motorcyclist, identified as 25-year-old Ean Alexander Gaskins of Fayetteville, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that his next of kin have been notified.
Officers later located the abandoned Nissan Altima approximately a quarter of a mile from the crash site. Through their investigation, police identified the driver as 43-year-old Roberto Coton Jr. of Cameron. He was taken into custody and charged with death by motor vehicle, felony hit and run, driving under the influence, failure to yield, operating a vehicle without insurance, expired registration, and expired inspection.
Coton is currently being held at the Cumberland County Detention Center under a $675,000 secured bond.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective J. Deal at 910-584-3692. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Fayetteville / Cumberland County Crime Stoppers by calling (910) 483-TIPS (8477) or through the P3 Tips app.
