Report: Driver Flees After Striking DOT Message Board

WILSON’S MILLS — A motorist who reportedly struck a highway message board along I-42 (U.S. 70) late Wednesday left the scene before being located by first responders several miles away.

The initial collision occurred on the shoulder of I-42 near Wilson’s Mills, where the portable message board had been parked. The driver lost control, hit the device, and then continued eastbound without stopping.

Shortly after the crash, a second driver encountered debris scattered across the roadway. The debris punctured two of the vehicle’s tires, forcing that driver to pull over and wait for assistance. No injuries were reported in either incident.

Wilson’s Mills firefighters later discovered a vehicle matching the description of the suspect’s car parked roughly two miles from the scene. The damaged vehicle reportedly had a highway sign next to it, consistent with a sign that had been placed next to the message board struck in the crash.

The State Highway Patrol made contact with the suspected driver. The individual was subsequently placed in handcuffs and transported to the Johnston County Jail.