Driver charged with DWI after allegedly hitting, killing elderly man crossing road in Gaston County
Road closed for hours during investigation
GASTONIA, N.C. (WBTV) - A driver was arrested after he allegedly hit and killed an elderly man trying to cross the road in Gaston County Monday afternoon, according to police.
Records showed the driver, identified as 30-year-old Robert Johnson, was charged with driving while impaired, second-degree murder, aggravated felony death, and failing to stop at a red light.
The victim was identified as 70-year-old James Harris.
What happened
The crash reportedly happened around 12:15 p.m. on Monday, July 14, along East Garrison Boulevard at Churchill Drive in Gastonia.
--> Previous: 1 killed in Gastonia crash near museum, police say
Police said Johnson, who was driving a Jeep Cherokee, hit and killed with Harris, who was trying to cross the street.
After gathering evidence, police said they apprehended and charged Johnson.
--> Also read: 24-year-old killed in York County motorcycle crash, coroner says
Officials said the roadway was shut down for at least two hours during the investigation.
Copyright 2025 WBTV. All rights reserved.
