ALEXANDER, Buncombe County, N.C., Nov. 11, 2026 — A pedestrian died on Monday afternoon, November 9, after being hit by a vehicle on Old Leicester Highway near Foster Estate Drive in Alexander, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. The driver has since been charged in connection with the crash.
A 2021 Tesla traveling west struck the pedestrian on Old Leicester Highway. The West Buncombe County Volunteer Fire Department pronounced the man dead at the scene. He was identified by troopers as 67-year-old Bruce Hensley of Alexander.
The driver, 45-year-old Richard Tener, was arrested and charged with driving while impaired, the Highway Patrol said. Old Leicester Highway was closed for several hours while investigators worked the scene.
Troopers said they are still trying to determine where the pedestrian was standing or walking at the moment of impact. Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact the North Carolina State Highway Patrol's Troop G, District IV office and ask for Trooper J. Owens or Sergeant H. Onderdonk.
Our sympathies are with the family of the person who lost their life.
Intersection Crashes in North Carolina
This pedestrian crash happened at Old Leicester Highway and Foster Estate Drive in Alexander, NC. Our North Carolina intersections page covers intersection crashes across North Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a pedestrian do after being hit by a car?
Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor, since some symptoms appear hours later. Try to get the names of any witnesses and wait for law enforcement to arrive and document the scene.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks, but drivers and walkers both share responsibility for checking traffic before crossing or turning.
What injuries are most common in pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrians struck by vehicles frequently suffer broken bones, head injuries, and internal trauma, since they have no protection from the impact.
