Driver Found Guilty In Fatal Downtown Smithfield Pedestrian Crash

SMITHFIELD, N.C. – A Wayne County man has been found guilty and sentenced to 24 days in jail for a September crash that killed a 76-year-old Smithfield woman as she crossed a downtown street in a marked crosswalk.

Selvin Adelso Vasquez-Perez, age 20, was found guilty Oct. 14 of death by motor vehicle following a bench trial in Johnston County District Court.

Vasquez-Perez received an active sentence of 24 days with credit for time already served. He also remained subject to a federal ICE detainer.

The conviction stems from the Sept. 19 death of Virginia Tucker Lyon.

The crash occurred at the intersection of Second and Market streets near the Johnston County Courthouse.

Investigators said Lyon was crossing Market Street in a marked crosswalk when Vasquez-Perez, driving a white pickup, turned left from Second Street onto Market Street and struck her.

Lyon suffered multiple injuries and later died while receiving treatment at WakeMed.

Smithfield Police determined alcohol, controlled substances and excessive speed did not contribute to the collision.

Assistant District Attorney Keith Gordon prosecuted the case.

District Attorney Jason Waller said, “Virginia Tucker Lyon lost her life while crossing the street in a marked crosswalk in downtown Smithfield. No outcome can undo that loss, but this conviction holds the defendant accountable for the consequences of his actions. Keeping our roadways safe is a priority for this office, and every driver has a responsibility to operate a vehicle with care for the people around them.”

Waller thanked the Court for its time and careful consideration, as well as the Smithfield Police Department for its investigation and Johnston County EMS for its efforts to save Lyon’s life.

Gordon added, “Ms. Lyon was a beloved member of this community. We extend our condolences to everyone who knew and loved her, and we appreciate the work of the officers and emergency personnel who responded to this tragedy.”

Following the criminal case, Vasquez-Perez was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement under a federal immigration detainer. He now faces possible removal from the United States through federal immigration proceedings.