Johnston County, North Carolina — A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the community after 29-year-old James Rudzki, a hardworking and dedicated utility worker, lost his life in a hit-and-run crash on Wednesday evening. Authorities say the incident occurred along a busy stretch of roadway, leaving friends, family, and co-workers devastated by his sudden passing.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Rudzki was performing his duties as part of a roadside utility crew when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. Despite immediate efforts by his colleagues and emergency responders, he did not survive his injuries. The driver responsible for the crash has not yet been identified, prompting an urgent search by law enforcement.
Officials say the incident happened shortly after sunset, when Rudzki and his crew were working near a utility access point along the highway. Preliminary investigations suggest that the driver may have failed to notice traffic cones and warning lights marking the work zone. The impact was severe, and the vehicle sped away before other motorists could intervene or capture its license plate information.
Emergency personnel from Johnston County EMS and local firefighters arrived within minutes, doing everything possible to provide medical aid. However, their efforts were unsuccessful. Troopers later closed part of the roadway for several hours as investigators collected evidence, including tire marks, debris, and possible surveillance footage from nearby businesses.
Authorities have described the case as both tragic and preventable, urging the public to drive carefully through work zones. State Highway Patrol officers emphasized that roadside workers face daily risks and depend on motorists to follow posted safety regulations. They are asking anyone who may have seen a speeding or damaged vehicle in the area to contact investigators immediately.
Family members have expressed immense grief at the loss of a young man described as compassionate, hardworking, and devoted to his profession. Loved ones say that Rudzki took pride in his job, often volunteering for late shifts and emergency repairs to help ensure power and services remained running for local residents. His colleagues have also spoken out, calling him a dependable teammate who always brought positivity to the crew.
The tragedy has prompted renewed discussions about roadside safety laws and the importance of the “Move Over” rule, which requires drivers to slow down or switch lanes when approaching emergency and utility workers. State officials have reminded motorists that such precautions are not only legal obligations but also vital to saving lives.
As the investigation continues, community members have begun leaving flowers and messages of remembrance near the site of the crash. Local leaders have extended condolences to the family, pledging to support law enforcement’s efforts to bring the driver responsible to justice.
Law enforcement officials say they are reviewing dashcam footage and witness accounts to narrow down potential suspects. They remain hopeful that someone will come forward with critical information to help solve the case.
For now, Johnston County mourns the loss of James Rudzki, whose life was tragically cut short while serving his community. His dedication and spirit will be remembered by those who worked beside him and loved him dearly, as the community seeks justice and healing in the wake of this painful tragedy.
