BEAR CREEK — The N.C. State Highway Patrol is asking the public for any information about a hit-and-run that occurred in Bear Creek earlier this week that resulted in a man's death.
Sometime between the Monday afternoon and Tuesday afternoon this week, a vehicle struck and killed 71-year old Bear Creek resident Ray Cotton on Meronies Church Road in Bear Creek. Cotton, who was frequently seen walking along Meronies Church Road by residents and passersby, had been reported missing Monday afternoon. Chatham County Sheriff's Deputies searched along the road on Tuesday and discovered a 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. As it was determined to be a vehicular involved accident, the N.C. State Highway Patrol took over investigation of the incident.
According to Sgt. Zeb Stroup of the highway patrol, 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. State Highway Patrol by dialing *47.
This is a developing story that will be updated.