Robeson County, NC (January 26, 2026) – A Red Springs woman was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Saturday evening on Highway 71, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Authorities said the crash occurred around 7:35 p.m. near McInnis Rd. The victim, identified as Carolyn Bullard Locklear, was riding a 2024 Honda Express moped when she was struck from behind by another eastbound vehicle. Locklear, who was wearing both a helmet and a reflector vest, was ejected as the moped overturned and went into a ditch. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect vehicle fled, and an active search remains underway.
Key Details
- Location: Robeson County, NC
- Where: Highway 71 near McInnis Rd
- Type: Hit-and-Run Moped Accident
- Reported: January 24 at 7:35 p.m.
- Injuries: Confirmed (1 fatality)
- Responding Agency: North Carolina State Highway Patrol
What We Know So Far
- The crash involved a 2024 Honda Express moped and an unidentified vehicle.
- Both vehicles were traveling east on Hwy 71 near McInnis Rd.
- The suspect vehicle failed to reduce speed and rear-ended the moped.
- The rider, Carolyn Bullard Locklear, was killed at the scene.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The make and model of the vehicle that fled the scene.
- Whether any eyewitnesses have come forward with information.
- How soon did responders arrive after the crash occurred.
- Whether surveillance or traffic footage captured the incident.
Local Context
Highway 71 in Robeson County serves as a key route through rural portions of the region, connecting communities like Red Springs with larger corridors. The area near McInnis Rd sees light to moderate traffic and limited lighting at night, making visibility and reaction time critical. When a crash occurs on this type of two-lane highway, especially one involving a vulnerable road user such as a moped rider, immediate response and scene assessment are crucial. In cases involving hit-and-run, investigators from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol focus on identifying the fleeing vehicle through witness accounts and physical evidence from the scene.
What to Do Next
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with first responders. Leaving before the police arrive can create complications later.
- If you witnessed the crash, consider staying to provide a statement if it is safe to do so.
- Write down the time, location, and what you observed while the details are still fresh.
- Keep paperwork from the incident in one place for easy reference.
FAQ
Q: What happens when police arrive at a crash scene?
A: Officers secure the area, assist victims, document vehicle positions, gather witness statements, and begin investigating what led to the crash.
Q: Why are hit-and-run cases treated so seriously?
A: Fleeing the scene of a crash leaves victims without help and obstructs justice. It is a criminal offense with serious legal consequences.
Q: Can an investigation continue after the scene is cleared?
A: Yes, crash investigations often continue for days or weeks as evidence is analyzed, witness reports are reviewed, and leads are pursued.
