BEAR CREEK — The N.C. Highway Patrol is asking the public for any information about a hit-and-run that occurred in Bear Creek earlier last week that resulted in a man’s death.
Sometime between Monday afternoon and Tuesday afternoon last week, a vehicle struck and killed 72-year old Bear Creek resident Ray Cotton on Meronies Church Road in Bear Creek. Cotton, who was frequently seen walking along that road by residents and passersby, had been reported missing Monday afternoon. Chatham County Sheriff’s deputies searched along the road on Tuesday and discovered his body in a ditch next to the road.
A medical examiner at the scene made a preliminary examination and determined Cotton was likely struck by a vehicle, at which time the State Highway Patrol took over the investigation.
According to Sgt. Zeb Stroup, several members of the team have been “chasing leads,” but they are also seeking the public’s assistance in finding the driver of vehicle that struck Cotton.
If you have any information that can assist, please contact the N.C. Highway Patrol by dialing *47.
Casey Mann can be reached at CaseyMann@Chathamnr.com.
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