Authorities in North Carolina have confirmed the tragic death of Linwood Phillips, a 48-year-old rideshare driver who had been reported missing earlier this month. Phillips was last seen on Thursday, April 2, at around 1:00 PM near Cary Towne Boulevard and Interstate 40. His family and local officials had launched a public appeal for assistance in locating him following his disappearance.
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Phillips was discovered deceased in an overturned vehicle that was located on an embankment following a crash. On Monday, April 6, police responded to reports of the vehicle off the road on the I-40 ramp west to Wade Avenue. Officers arrived at the scene around 4:30 PM and found Phillips’ 2011 grey Acura MDX hidden in the woods, down an embankment.
Initial investigations conducted by the Raleigh Police Department suggest that Phillips was travelling at approximately 70 mph when the car went off the roadway. The vehicle is believed to have become airborne before overturning, causing severe damage to the driver’s cabin. Authorities suspect that the impact was fatal.
Friends and family of Phillips had expressed their concerns as they searched for him following his last known sighting. James Sherodd, Phillips’ father, shared earlier that he had seen his son on the Tuesday before the crash, but began to worry when Phillips stopped responding to calls on Thursday. Phillips’ family revealed that he had delivered car parts to an auto repair shop located nearly five miles from the crash site, indicating potential reasons for his journey that day.
In a heartbreaking twist, family members who were searching for Phillips discovered his vehicle during their efforts. Robin Owen, the mother of Phillips’ fiancée, recounted how her son-in-law spotted a wheel as they scoured the area, leading them to the scene where they found the car. Owen added that personal items, including sandwiches she had prepared for her grandson, were still inside the vehicle.
As the investigation progresses, the Raleigh Police Department continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash. Phillips was known to work as a driver for both Uber and Lyft, although representatives from the rideshare companies confirmed that he was not engaged in any rides at the time of the accident.
In light of the tragic news, the Cary Police Department issued a statement expressing their sorrow over the incident. They thanked community members for their attempts to assist in the search for Phillips and extended their condolences to his family and friends. The message reflected the hope that the situation would yield a different outcome.
The case has sparked discussions within the community about road safety and the need for vigilance among drivers. Local police have urged residents to remain aware while on the roads, particularly during periods of heavy traffic or adverse weather conditions, which can contribute to dangerous driving situations.
As investigations continue, the family of Linwood Phillips is left to navigate their grief and begin to heal from this tragic loss. The outpouring of support from the community epitomises the collective sadness surrounding the incident, as they remember a man who was not just a member of their community but also a beloved family member.