Shelby, NC — January 31, 2025, a man was killed following a pedestrian versus truck accident at approximately 5:00 a.m. along East Dixon Boulevard.
According to authorities, a man was on foot in the vicinity of U.S. Highway 74 and Earl Road.

Details surrounding the accident remain scarce. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, the man was struck by three motor vehicles, one of which was apparently a tow truck. The pedestrian suffered reportedly fatal injuries over the course of the accident and was declared deceased at the scene. Additional information pertaining to this incident—including the identity of the victim—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When a pedestrian is struck by multiple vehicles, including a tow truck, the key question isn’t just what happened but why none of the drivers were able to avoid the collision. In my experience handling truck accident cases, crashes like this often involve factors that aren’t immediately clear from the scene alone.
One of the first things investigators should determine is whether visibility played a role. Pedestrian crashes in the early morning hours often raise questions about lighting conditions, reflective clothing, and sightlines. However, drivers—especially commercial drivers—still have a duty to be aware of their surroundings. Investigators should examine whether the tow truck driver was using proper headlights, following the speed limit, and scanning the roadway for hazards.
Distraction is another possible factor. Tow truck operators often rely on in-cab GPS systems and dispatch devices while driving, and even a brief lapse in attention could result in a driver failing to see a pedestrian in time to react. Investigators should review dashcam footage, phone records, and other electronic data to determine whether distraction contributed to the crash.
The sequence of events also needs to be closely examined. Did the pedestrian enter the roadway unexpectedly, or was he already present when the first vehicle struck him? Did the tow truck driver have enough time to react after the initial impact? Understanding the timing and movement of all parties involved is essential to determining responsibility.
Finally, the tow truck company’s role should be considered. Was the driver properly trained to operate in low-light conditions? Was the truck well-maintained, with functioning brakes and headlights? If a company fails to properly train its drivers or maintain its fleet, that could be a contributing factor.
Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the crash. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain critical evidence, it’s essential to examine every factor to ensure those impacted by the incident receive the clarity and closure they deserve.