20-Year-Old Woman Killed In Johnston County Pedestrian Crash

JOHNSTON COUNTY – A 20-year-old Clayton woman was killed Tuesday morning after being struck by a vehicle on Rock Pillar Road, according to the N.C. State Highway Patrol.

The collision was reported around 8:55 a.m. near the intersection of Little Creek Church Road.

Troopers said Ashley Ruller was walking east along Rock Pillar Road, near the shoulder and facing traffic, when she was struck by a westbound vehicle.

Ruller was pronounced dead at the scene.

The vehicle was driven by David Lee Kalmowitz, 41, of Clayton. He was not injured.

Highway Patrol said Kalmowitz was wearing a seat belt and was not impaired. Investigators also said speed was not a factor in the collision.

Troopers said inattention appeared to be a contributing factor.

Following the investigation, which included assistance from the Highway Patrol Reconstruction Unit and consultation with the Johnston County District Attorney’s Office, Kalmowitz was cited for misdemeanor death by motor vehicle.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact the N.C. State Highway Patrol Johnston County office at 919-934-2186 or 919-733-3861.