Daniel Hodge Obituary, Death: A Deadly Crash on North Point Boulevard in Winston-Salem
A deadly crash that occurred late Thursday night in Winston-Salem is currently under investigation by local law enforcement. The incident, which involved two vehicles, resulted in the death of 79-year-old Daniel Hodge and left 81-year-old Janice Bowman with serious injuries. According to the Winston-Salem Police Department (WSPD), officers were dispatched to the scene of a two-vehicle collision on North Point Boulevard just before 10 p.m. on Thursday night .
The Investigation
The WSPD Traffic Enforcement Unit has taken over the investigation to determine exactly how the crash occurred and whether any charges may be filed.
Officers are examining all aspects of the incident, including vehicle speeds, visibility at the time of the collision, and whether either driver failed to yield or obey traffic laws. As part of their ongoing work, investigators will likely assess data from the vehicles, speak with witnesses, and analyze any available surveillance footage from nearby properties or traffic cameras .
The Crash
Initial findings from the investigation indicate that the 2007 Honda was traveling eastbound along North Point Boulevard when it collided with the driver’s side of the Kia, which was pulling out of a private driveway at the time. The impact from the crash caused significant damage and led to tragic consequences for the occupants of the Kia. Authorities have identified the driver of the Honda as 21-year-old Jaciel Reyes. Both drivers had one passenger each in their vehicles at the time of the crash .
Injuries and Fatalities
Emergency responders pronounced Daniel Hodge dead at the scene. His passenger, Janice Bowman, sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital for emergency treatment. No further updates on her condition have been released at this time. Fortunately, Reyes and his passenger in the Honda were not injured in the crash .
Road Safety Concerns
The area where the crash occurred, North Point Boulevard, is a well-traveled road in Winston-Salem and features a mix of commercial properties, residential driveways, and side streets. Accidents in such locations often raise concerns about line-of-sight visibility, signage, lighting conditions, and traffic flow patterns—particularly when vehicles enter or exit driveways along busy thoroughfares .
Community Reaction
The community is mourning the loss of Daniel Hodge, and hopes for the recovery of Janice Bowman. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly everyday actions—such as pulling out of a driveway—can turn tragic. For older drivers, age-related changes in reaction time, vision, and hearing can increase the risks of driving, particularly at night or in high-traffic areas.
Conclusion
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and more details will likely emerge as the WSPD finalizes its report. The Winston-Salem Police Department continues to stress the need for all motorists to remain alert, follow traffic regulations, and be especially mindful in areas where vehicles are entering or exiting driveways.
Individuals with dash camera footage or who were in the area around 10 p.m. Thursday are especially encouraged to contact the Winston-Salem Police Department’s Traffic Enforcement Unit .
