Tragic Accident in Kitty Hawk: A Community in Mourning
Kitty Hawk, N.C. – A night that was supposed to be just like any other turned into a heartbreaking tragedy for the small community of Kitty Hawk. On Wednesday evening, an auto-pedestrian collision left a man and his two beloved dogs dead, shaking the town to its core.
At approximately 8:46 p.m., local police received an emergency call reporting a pedestrian struck by a vehicle at the intersection of North Croatan Highway and White Street. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered the devastating aftermath of the accident. The man, identified as 43-year-old Michael Lamb from Durham, was crossing the road with his two dogs when they were tragically hit by a Honda Accord.
Despite immediate efforts from emergency personnel to save him, Lamb, along with his furry companions, succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Kitty Hawk Police Chief Mike Palkovics expressed his sorrow regarding the incident, stating, “This is the first and the worst so far,” adding that incidents like this take a heavy toll on everyone involved.
While the driver of the Honda Accord remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation, there have been no charges filed at this time. Chief Palkovics mentioned that they are awaiting further details and evidence to fully determine the cause of the accident, emphasizing that “we are going to do our due diligence.”
Witnesses Share their Shock
The sound of the collision echoed through the night, with nearby residents like Mary Heckhouse hearing the screech of tires followed by a loud thump. “I heard a loud screech, a loud thumping metal, and I knew something horrible had happened,” she recalled with a trembling voice. Heckhouse and her daughter rushed to the scene, doing their best to remain calm while others screamed and cried.
Witnesses at the scene spoke about the sheer chaos that unfolded, with many expressing disbelief that such a tragic event could occur in their quiet town. “It was awful,” said Heckhouse. “I stayed back because I knew it was pretty bad.”
The Dangers of Highway 158
Highway 158 is known to be a bustling and often treacherous road, spanning five lanes as a major thoroughfare on the Outer Banks. Chief Palkovics emphasized the need for caution when navigating this busy stretch, stating, “It is a difficult road to cross. You have to proceed with caution when crossing here.”
Local business owner Jeanne Shrader, who has been running her store, Knitting Addition, for over a decade at the busy intersection, lamented on the frequency of accidents in the area. “I would say that this is a difficult intersection,” she shared, expressing her concern that serious crashes occur around every six to eight weeks. “It’s horrifying, and I am not surprised.”
Speeding is often cited as a significant issue around the intersection, and Shrader is advocating for a reduction in the speed limit. “Oh, I would like to see the speed limit in this section brought down. I think 50 is too fast,” she said earnestly.
A Call for Safety
In light of this tragic accident, both residents and officials are calling for increased awareness and safety measures. Many feel that enhanced visibility and lighting along the highway would greatly benefit pedestrians attempting to cross. Heckhouse lamented, “It’s too dark… there should be some type of light for pedestrian safety.”
The Kitty Hawk Police Chief echoed these sentiments, urging the community to stay alert, whether they are driving or walking. “If you’re walking, be alert, pay attention… and if you are a pedestrian, make sure you are crossing in the proper location,” Palkovics advised.
This unfortunate incident has struck a heavy chord in Kitty Hawk, prompting conversations about road safety and pedestrian awareness. As investigations continue, the community unites in its grief, holding memories of Michael Lamb and his two furry friends close to their hearts.
