Pedestrian Dies After District Attorney Clears Officer in Rutherfordton Crash

The pedestrian struck by a Rutherfordton Police Department patrol car earlier this month has died, one day after District Attorney Ted Bell’s office issued a press release saying the officer would not face criminal charges.

The victim has been identified as David Barton “Bart” Long, 77. He died on Oct. 18 from injuries sustained in the October 8 collision on South Main Street involving Sgt. Jordan Chapman. WCAB News first reported the incident on Oct. 9.

On Friday, the Town of Rutherfordton released a statement on behalf of Bell and the District Attorney’s Office, saying:

“The Town of Rutherfordton remains deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred on October 8, 2025, involving a Rutherfordton Police Department officer and a pedestrian on South Main Street. Our hearts are with the pedestrian and his loved ones as he continues to face serious health challenges. We are equally mindful of the toll this event has taken on the officer involved and his family, as no one ever wishes for or expects to be part of such a heartbreaking situation. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol conducted a thorough investigation with support from the District Attorney’s Office. We appreciate their professionalism and care in reviewing all the facts and ensuring transparency throughout this process. The District Attorney’s Office has issued the following press release with the findings of the investigation.”

The full press release from the District Attorney’s Office stated: "Officer Cleared in Pedestrian Strike on South Main St., Rutherfordton.

At approximately 4:17 a.m. on October 8, 2025, Sgt. Jordan Chapman with the Rutherfordton Police Department struck a pedestrian with his patrol car on South Main Street in Rutherfordton. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol investigated the incident, which they did with the assistance of their Accident Reconstruction Unit. According to the District Attorney’s Office, the investigation determined the following:

At the time of the incident, it was dark and raining and the victim was dressed in dark clothing, wearing a black jacket and blue jeans and had a blue and white umbrella. Rumors that the victim was wearing a reflective vest are false. The defendant was walking in the direction of vehicle travel, and the evidence indicates he was walking in the roadway. Unseen by the officer because of the darkness, rain, and the dark clothing, the officer struck the victim with the right front bumper of his car. The officer felt the impact and thought a deer had run into his car. He immediately stopped, checked to see what happened, and discovered the pedestrian. He called dispatch right away requesting EMS and emergency services. An analysis of both the officer’s phone and his in-car computer showed that neither had been in use leading up to the impact, and it was confirmed electronically that his speed was less than 30 mph during his drive up South Main Street, below the 35 mph posted limit. Based on the results of the investigation, the District Attorney’s Office has determined that Sgt. Chapman did not violate any criminal laws and will not be pursuing any criminal charges. This was a very unfortunate event, and the District Attorney’s Office is praying for the victim."

The incident has renewed local discussion about pedestrian safety and the lack of sidewalks along South Main Street, where foot traffic is common near the park and transit stops. The NC Highway Patrol told WCAB News the accident report has not been publicly released, but it is expected to be this week.