A tragic hit-and-run case in North Carolina has taken a major turn after police arrested a suspect more than five months after the incident. The case, which involved the death of a pedestrian in Gastonia, had remained unresolved for months. Now, with an arrest made, authorities may be closer to uncovering what really happened that day.
Suspect arrested after five months
Police have arrested 20-year-old Josiah Nyree Urquhart-Crew in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash. The arrest took place on Thursday, bringing some progress to a case that had been under investigation since November 2025.
According to court records, Urquhart-Crew has been charged with serious offences, including felony hit and run resulting in death and reckless driving to endanger. These charges are considered severe under North Carolina law and could lead to strict punishment if proven in court.
Details of the fatal crash
The incident happened on November 18, 2025, at around 4:30 p.m. on Trinity Avenue in Gastonia. The victim, 34-year-old Ryne Linker, was walking in the area when he was allegedly struck by a vehicle driven by Urquhart-Crew.
After the collision, Linker suffered serious injuries and later died. His death turned the case into a fatal hit-and-run, increasing the seriousness of the charges.
Witness reports and initial findings suggest that after hitting Linker, the driver also crashed into a nearby house. Despite the damage and the severity of the situation, the suspect fled the scene instead of staying to help or report the accident.
Investigation still unclear
So far, officials have not shared many details about how the investigation progressed over the months. It is not clear when or how police identified Urquhart-Crew as the main suspect in the case.
The Gastonia Police Department has not released any official statement regarding the arrest. They have also not provided further updates about the evidence or what led to the breakthrough in the case.
Because of this, many questions still remain unanswered. Authorities are likely continuing their investigation to build a stronger case.
Previous traffic violation
Records show that Urquhart-Crew was also cited earlier this year by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. On April 7, he was charged with driving without insurance.
While this offence is separate from the hit-and-run case, it may still be considered during legal proceedings, especially when reviewing his driving history and behaviour on the road.
Court appearance and custody status
At present, Urquhart-Crew is being held without bond for the felony hit-and-run charge. This means he will remain in custody until further court decisions are made.
He is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Friday in Gaston County Court. During this hearing, the court will review the charges and decide the next steps in the legal process.
Impact of the case
This case has deeply affected the local community, especially because it involves the loss of a life and a delayed arrest. Hit-and-run incidents often leave families without closure for long periods, making the situation even more painful.
The arrest may bring some relief to the victim’s family, but the legal process is just beginning. It will take time before the full truth comes out and justice is served.
