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Thursday, October 29, 2026

Pedestrian Killed in Johnston County Accident

The pedestrian has been identified as Ashley Ruller, 20, of Clayton, who died in a crash on Rock Pillar Road on Tuesday morning.

By Accident News StaffContributor:Candice BondCandice Bond

About this commentary

This commentary is general information, not specific to the incident in this article. It is not legal advice, and the contributor may not be licensed in your state.

Johnston County, North CarolinaPublished 1 min read

Ashley Ruller, 20, of Clayton, was killed in a pedestrian crash on Rock Pillar Road in Johnston County on Tuesday morning, according to the N.C. State Highway Patrol.

Approximate area around Rock Pillar Road, Johnston County, NC. Open in Google Maps

What Happened on Rock Pillar Road

The collision was reported at about 8:55 a.m. near the intersection of Little Creek Church Road. Troopers said Ruller was walking east near the shoulder and facing traffic when a westbound vehicle struck her. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The car was driven by David Lee Kalmowitz, 41, of Clayton, who was not injured.

Help for families who lost someone is below.

Where the Highway Patrol Investigation Stands

The Highway Patrol said its Reconstruction Unit assisted with the investigation, and troopers consulted the Johnston County District Attorney's Office. According to the Highway Patrol, Kalmowitz received a citation for misdemeanor death by motor vehicle. The investigation remains ongoing. Troopers asked anyone with information about the collision to contact the Highway Patrol's Johnston County office.

A full investigation into a serious crash often takes weeks, and sometimes months. Investigators usually wait for vehicle data and lab results before they finish their report.

Candice BondCandice Bond · Bond LegalFrom an earlier interview. General commentary, not about this crash, and not legal advice.

How we wrote this story

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Lost someone in a crash like this?

Here is what families in North Carolina usually need, in the order it comes up.

  1. Death certificates. The funeral home or the family can order them, and banks and insurers each usually want a copy.

  2. Crash report. The crash report is usually ready a few weeks after the crash, and you can still get it later.

  3. Funeral costs. Every state has a victim fund that pays funeral costs after some crashes, and the fund decides who qualifies.

  4. Survivor payments. If the person who died had worked, their spouse or children may get monthly Social Security payments. Applying early matters.

  5. Insurance offer. You can turn down the insurer's first offer and ask for more.

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