Raleigh, NC (May 16, 2026) – A pedestrian died after a hit-and-run crash Friday night in the 3100 block of New Bern Ave in Raleigh.
Emergency units responded around 9 p.m. on Friday, May 15, after reports of a pedestrian-involved collision near the outbound lanes close to the Wake Inn. Responders found a 54-year-old woman, later identified as Nicole Shawnette White, lying in the roadway.
According to preliminary information, the woman was attempting to cross the road outside of a marked crosswalk when she was struck by a vehicle. She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Officials said the driver involved did not remain at the scene following the collision. Investigators are working to identify the vehicle and determine the sequence of events leading up to the crash.
Additional details about the vehicle or driver have not been released.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
How Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Crashes Are Typically Investigated
After a hit-and-run pedestrian crash, investigators usually begin by establishing the exact point of impact and the direction of travel for both the pedestrian and the vehicle. Roadway lighting, traffic flow, and visibility conditions are often reviewed to understand how the collision occurred.
Physical evidence such as debris, paint transfer, and tire marks can help identify the type of vehicle involved. Nearby surveillance cameras and witness accounts are also commonly examined to track movements before and after the crash.
Medical reports and scene documentation are later used to confirm the severity of injuries and reconstruct the timeline of events. These steps help investigators build a clearer picture of how the crash developed and support efforts to locate the driver involved.