Tragic Head-On Collision on Russ Avenue Kills Two in Waynesville on January 29, 2025

Waynesville, NC (January 29, 2025) – According to local news reports, a devastating head-on collision on Russ Avenue in Waynesville left two people dead and two others injured. The tragic accident occurred on Wednesday evening, leading to a swift response from bystanders who rushed to aid the victims before first responders arrived.

Details of the Fatal Car Accident on Russ Avenue

The crash happened at approximately 6:35 p.m. between Shining Rock Classical Academy and the Haywood County Senior Resource Center. A BMW SUV traveling north toward Dellwood City Road suddenly veered across five lanes of traffic, colliding head-on with a Ford F-250 pickup truck in the outermost lane of oncoming traffic.

Both vehicles sustained significant damage, blocking all lanes of Russ Avenue for hours. The driver of the BMW, Valerie Pereski, 68, and her passenger, William Cochrane, 76, both from Arden, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their four-year-old Sheltie, Molly, also did not survive the crash.

The two men in the Ford F-250, both of Latino descent, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Witnesses who stopped to help described them as being in shock but conscious, suffering from visible wounds, including severe facial injuries.

Witnesses Acted Swiftly to Aid the Victims

Bystanders played a critical role in the immediate aftermath of the accident, stepping in to assist the injured before emergency personnel arrived. Among them were Michele Berné and Jessica Barone, two women who witnessed the crash while driving along Russ Avenue.

Seeing the severity of the situation, several motorists rushed to the burning Ford truck, breaking its windows to pull the injured men to safety. Barone, recognizing the severity of one victim's head wound, used baby diapers from her car to help stem the bleeding. Berné turned her attention to the BMW, where she discovered the tragic scene inside.

"I climbed in between the seats from the back and put one hand on each of them, and I prayed to God," Berné recounted. "I prayed they go to heaven and felt no pain."

Realizing the driver was beyond help, she checked for additional passengers, fearing that children might have been in the back. Instead, she found the couple's dog, which had not survived.

Authorities Continue to Investigate the Cause of the Crash

Law enforcement officials have yet to determine what caused the BMW to cross multiple lanes of traffic before the fatal impact. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol has confirmed that the accident remains under investigation, with no immediate conclusions regarding speed or mechanical failure.

Sgt. Chris Scerri noted that while accidents occur along this stretch of Russ Avenue, fatal incidents of this severity are rare.

"I've only been out here almost a year," Scerri said. "On that stretch of 276, we don’t have too many accidents. That’s the first fatal accident on that stretch of 276 since I’ve been here."

The road remained closed for three hours as authorities worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the scene.

Finding a Personal Injury Attorney in Waynesville, NC

Experiencing a personal injury can be overwhelming, leaving victims to deal with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional stress. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, working with a personal injury attorney in Waynesville, NC, can help you recover compensation for your losses. An experienced lawyer understands the complexities of injury cases and can provide the guidance needed to navigate the legal process.

How a Personal Injury Attorney in Waynesville, NC Can Help You

A personal injury attorney is dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Whether you were injured in a car accident, slip and fall, or another type of incident, a lawyer can help you build a strong case by gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary.

• Legal Guidance: Understanding the legal process can be difficult, but an attorney will explain your rights and options clearly.
• Case Evaluation: A lawyer will review the details of your case, determine liability, and estimate the value of your claim.
• Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Court Representation: If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will advocate for you in court to secure the best possible outcome.

Why Choosing the Right Personal Injury Lawyer Matters

Selecting the right personal injury attorney in Waynesville, NC, can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A knowledgeable lawyer will have experience handling various types of personal injury claims and will work diligently to ensure you receive full compensation. The legal team at Rosensteel Fleishman is known for its dedication to client success, offering compassionate and professional representation for those injured in accidents.

Understanding the Role of Waynesville Car Accident Lawyers

Car accidents can cause life-altering injuries and financial hardship for victims and their families. When an accident occurs due to another driver's negligence, working with a Waynesville car accident lawyer can help you recover damages for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses. Legal representation ensures that victims do not have to handle insurance claims and negotiations alone.

What a Waynesville Car Accident Lawyer Does for Your Case

A car accident lawyer provides comprehensive legal support to clients by handling every aspect of the claims process. From gathering accident reports to negotiating with insurance companies, an attorney works to protect your rights and secure fair compensation. Key services include:

• Investigating the Accident: Collecting evidence such as witness statements, photos, and medical records to build a strong case.
• Determining Liability: Identifying the responsible party and proving negligence to hold them accountable.
• Handling Insurance Claims: Communicating with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlement offers and unfair claim denials.
• Maximizing Compensation: Ensuring victims receive financial recovery for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

The Benefits of Hiring a Local Car Accident Lawyer in Waynesville, NC

Choosing a local attorney familiar with North Carolina laws and the Waynesville court system can give your case a significant advantage. A local lawyer understands the specific regulations that apply to car accident cases and can provide personalized attention to ensure your legal needs are met.

Working with a skilled Waynesville car accident lawyer can make the difference between struggling with financial losses and receiving the compensation you need to move forward. If you have been injured in an accident, seeking legal assistance as soon as possible can help you protect your rights and build a strong case for recovery.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is Your Best Choice for Car Accident Cases in Waynesville

A tragic accident like the one in Waynesville underscores the need for experienced legal guidance when dealing with the aftermath of a collision. For those affected by car accidents in North Carolina, working with a trusted personal injury attorney can make all the difference in securing compensation and navigating the complexities of insurance claims.

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers have a strong reputation for handling cases involving serious vehicle collisions. With years of experience in personal injury law, their attorneys understand the legal intricacies surrounding car accident claims and work diligently to support their clients through every step of the process.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Waynesville, seeking legal counsel can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

How a Waynesville Car Accident Attorney Can Help After a Collision

Dealing with the aftermath of a serious car accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress can take a toll on victims and their families. Working with a skilled car accident lawyer can provide much-needed support and guidance during this challenging time.

Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Waynesville Car Accident Case

Choosing the right legal team is essential for securing fair compensation after an accident. Here’s how a law firm like Rosensteel Fleishman can help:

• Handling Insurance Claims: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when trying to recover from injuries. A personal injury attorney ensures that insurance providers do not undervalue or deny valid claims.
• Gathering Evidence: A strong case requires thorough investigation. Lawyers collect police reports, witness statements, medical records, and other key pieces of evidence to support a claim.
• Negotiating Settlements: Most car accident cases are settled out of court. An attorney can negotiate on behalf of victims to secure a fair settlement that covers medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Providing Legal Representation: If a case goes to trial, having an experienced legal team ensures that victims have strong advocacy in court.

What Does a Waynesville Accident Lawyer Do? How Can They Help?

A car accident lawyer in Waynesville, NC, works to protect the rights of accident victims by handling all legal aspects of their claim. This includes assessing liability, filing paperwork, and representing clients in negotiations or court proceedings. By working with an attorney, victims can focus on their recovery while their legal team fights for the compensation they deserve.

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Car Accident in Waynesville, NC?

The aftermath of a car accident often involves more than just physical injuries. Emotional trauma, financial stress, and long-term recovery challenges can weigh heavily on victims. A personal injury attorney helps alleviate these burdens by managing legal complexities and ensuring that clients receive adequate compensation for their damages.

Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers have built a reputation as one of North Carolina’s leading law firms for personal injury cases. With their deep understanding of state laws and commitment to client success, they provide top-tier legal representation for those injured in vehicle accidents.

"Every client deserves personal attention and dedicated representation," said Corey Rosensteel, co-founder of the firm. "We work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses."

Being based in Charlotte, NC, the firm serves clients across the state, including those in Waynesville who need experienced legal help following a serious accident.

Get the Legal Support You Need – Contact Rosensteel Fleishman Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Waynesville, now is the time to seek legal guidance. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

With a free consultation available, there’s no reason to handle this alone. Call 1-704-714-1450 today to speak with an experienced car accident attorney and take the first step toward securing your future.