Rex Powell Death News: FedEx Driver Talmadge Belcher Charged in Fatal Burke County Rollover Crash
A tragic collision in Burke County led to the death of a local man and charges against a FedEx delivery truck driver, according to reports from state troopers. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 1, and involved two vehicles at the intersection of North Carolina Highway 181 and Bowman Avenue in Morganton.
Authorities have identified the FedEx driver as 27-year-old Talmadge Belcher from Lenoir. He now faces charges of misdemeanor death by vehicle and failure to yield the right of way, stemming from his role in the crash.
Investigation and Next Steps
The victim in the accident has been identified as 67-year-old Rex Powell, a resident of Morganton. Officials confirmed that Powell was killed when his car overturned after being struck by Belcher’s truck.
The crash occurred shortly after 1:20 p.m. According to the preliminary investigation, Belcher was at a stop sign on Bowman Avenue and attempted to cross over NC-181. As he entered the intersection, his FedEx truck collided with Powell’s vehicle. The impact forced Powell’s car into a guardrail, where it rolled over, resulting in fatal injuries.
Community Response and Concerns
The crash has raised concerns about safety at the intersection where the incident took place. NC-181 is a well-traveled road, and accidents at or near intersections are not uncommon. While no other vehicles were involved in this crash, the fatal outcome highlights the potential consequences of failing to follow right-of-way rules.
Implications and Future Directions
Misdemeanor death by vehicle, the charge Belcher faces, is a serious offense in North Carolina. It typically applies in cases where a person unintentionally causes another’s death while committing a traffic violation that is not considered grossly negligent or reckless. The legal process will now determine how the case proceeds and what penalties Belcher may face if convicted.
Conclusion
The loss of Rex Powell is a tragic reminder of the importance of road safety and the potential consequences of failing to follow traffic laws. As the investigation into this incident continues, the community comes together to support those affected and work towards preventing similar tragedies in the future.
*Road Safety Tips*
– Always yield to other vehicles when entering an intersection.
– Come to a complete stop at stop signs and look for traffic in both directions.
– Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other drivers.
– Follow traffic laws and signals, and avoid distractions while driving.
*Resources*
– National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Provides information and resources on road safety and traffic laws.
– North Carolina Department of Transportation: Offers information and resources on traffic safety and road conditions in North Carolina.
By following road safety tips and staying informed about traffic safety, we can work towards reducing the number of motor vehicle crashes and fatalities on our roads.
