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Driver Charged With Second-Degree Murder After Fatal DWI Crash on Seehorn Street in Lenoir on September 13, 2025

Published Date: November 18, 2025

Note: Our firm’s mission is to help people injured in accidents. Because we do this work, we see the consequences of these accidents on the victims and the families. Through these articles, we aim to foster a safer community and provide support to those affected by such tragedies. 

Our firm respects the privacy and dignity of those involved and is willing to amend or remove content at the request of affected parties. To contact us use 704-714-1450 or send us a message.
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Lenoir, NC (September 13, 2025) - Local news outlets report that a tragic single-vehicle crash in Lenoir led to the death of a 21-year-old Hickory man and resulted in serious criminal charges for the driver. According to the City of Lenoir Police Department, the accident occurred around 11:15 p.m. on Seehorn Street near Hospital Avenue when a 2018 Ford Mustang ran off the road and struck a tree.

Investigators determined that the driver, 22-year-old Joshua James Thomas Swanson of Lenoir, had been operating the vehicle in a careless and reckless manner while impaired. At the time of the crash, Swanson was traveling with two passengers—21-year-old Mykola Olgevich Zhurbikov of Hickory, who was in the front seat, and 22-year-old Petya Filippovych of Lenoir, who was in the back seat.

Emergency responders from Caldwell County EMS and the City of Lenoir Fire Department arrived at the scene to assist the injured. Both Swanson and Zhurbikov were airlifted to Atrium Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte for treatment, while Filippovych received care at the scene and was released shortly thereafter. Tragically, Zhurbikov succumbed to his injuries three days later on September 16, 2025.

Following an extensive collision reconstruction and investigation, Lenoir Police concluded that impairment and reckless driving were key factors in the crash. On November 13, Swanson was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. He is currently being held without bond at the Caldwell County Detention Center.

Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the Lenoir Police Department at 828-757-2100 or provide an anonymous tip through City of Lenoir/Caldwell County Crime Stoppers at 828-758-8300. The department expressed condolences to the victim’s family, noting that their thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the tragedy.


The Path Toward Recovery After a Car Accident in Lenoir

After a devastating event like the recent crash in Lenoir, families often face immense emotional and financial stress. Recovering from the shock of a car accident involves not only physical healing but also managing the practical challenges that follow. During these difficult times, having access to compassionate and knowledgeable legal support can make a meaningful difference.

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers provide help for people in Lenoir, North Carolina, who have been affected by serious accidents. Their attorneys understand how deeply these incidents can impact families, from mounting medical bills to the uncertainty surrounding insurance claims. As a trusted local law firm, they bring a strong sense of care and commitment to those they represent.

It’s important for anyone hurt in a car accident to know they are not alone. Legal support can help victims focus on recovery while experienced attorneys handle the complexities of the case. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident in Lenoir, call 1-704-714-1450 for a free consultation with Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers.

What Every North Carolina Victim Should Know About Their Rights After a Car Accident

Understanding your rights and legal options after a crash in Lenoir, North Carolina, is essential to protecting yourself and your future. Victims of car accidents often face confusion about what steps to take first, and without proper guidance, they may lose access to compensation that could help with medical expenses or lost wages.

Attorneys play a critical role in helping clients understand how state laws affect their claims. North Carolina follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning that even small mistakes can impact your ability to recover damages. This is why consulting a lawyer early can be so valuable. A legal team can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and ensure that insurance companies treat you fairly.

Rosensteel Fleishman’s attorneys are familiar with the timelines involved in car accident cases, including the state’s statute of limitations. They help clients meet deadlines, negotiate settlements, and, when necessary, represent them in court to pursue fair compensation. When victims know their rights, they are better equipped to make decisions that protect their health, finances, and peace of mind.

Your Rights and Legal Options After a Car Accident in Lenoir

After a car accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by questions about liability and next steps. Victims have the right to pursue compensation for injuries, lost income, and other damages caused by another party’s negligence. Working with an experienced attorney ensures that your case is presented clearly and effectively to insurance companies or the courts.

Legal professionals can also help document evidence such as photos, medical reports, and witness statements—crucial details that strengthen your claim. A lawyer’s guidance helps you avoid common mistakes that could reduce your settlement amount. If you were injured in a crash in Lenoir, understanding your rights early can prevent added stress and help secure a fair outcome.

Examining the Most Common Car Accidents in Lenoir

Car accidents in Lenoir, NC, can occur for many reasons, but some types are more frequent than others. Rear-end collisions, head-on crashes, and accidents caused by impaired or distracted driving are among the most common. Each type of crash can cause serious injuries, from broken bones to long-term trauma, and often leaves victims struggling to manage both recovery and financial pressure.

Seeking legal help after such an incident allows victims to pursue compensation for their losses. Working with a local attorney who understands Caldwell County’s roads, traffic patterns, and legal system gives clients an advantage. If you or a loved one has been involved in one of these types of crashes, contacting a trusted car accident law firm in Lenoir can help protect your rights.

Common Injuries and Challenges After a Lenoir Car Accident

Injuries from car accidents often require ongoing treatment and rehabilitation. Victims may experience whiplash, spinal damage, or head trauma that can affect their ability to work and live normally. Beyond physical injuries, the emotional toll can be significant, especially when dealing with insurance negotiations or unexpected bills.

Attorneys at Rosensteel Fleishman are experienced in handling cases involving severe injuries and can connect clients with the medical and financial resources they need. Their support helps clients recover while focusing on their well-being rather than paperwork or claim disputes.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney After a Car Accident in Lenoir

Recovering from a serious car accident in Lenoir can be difficult, especially when insurance companies minimize claims or delay payments. A personal injury attorney serves as both an advocate and advisor, guiding clients through every stage of their case while ensuring their rights remain protected.

An attorney’s knowledge of North Carolina law helps victims build strong claims that accurately reflect their medical costs, property damage, and emotional suffering. By managing negotiations and representing clients in court when necessary, lawyers allow victims to focus on healing. Working with an personal injury lawyer serving Lenoir, NC ensures that your case receives attention from professionals who care about your recovery and outcome.

What Your Lawyer Does Behind the Scenes After a Car Accident

Behind the scenes, personal injury attorneys handle critical steps that most clients never see. They investigate the accident, collect police reports, consult experts, and negotiate directly with insurers. This preparation helps build a strong case and improves the likelihood of a fair settlement.

Many victims underestimate how challenging it can be to deal with insurance adjusters or meet legal deadlines. With professional legal help, they avoid costly errors and secure the compensation they deserve. A personal injury attorney offers both legal strategy and peace of mind during a stressful time.

Trusted Legal Guidance for Car Accident Victims in Lenoir, North Carolina

For those recovering from serious crashes in Lenoir, North Carolina, finding reliable legal help is an important part of moving forward. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers have earned a strong reputation across North Carolina for their dedication to helping injured clients rebuild their lives.

Attorney Corey Rosensteel explains, “When people come to us, they’re often at one of the lowest points in their lives. Our job is to handle the details so they can focus on getting better.” This approach reflects the firm’s belief in personalized service, clear communication, and genuine care for every client.

With years of experience serving North Carolina residents, the firm provides steady guidance through insurance claims, legal filings, and courtroom representation when needed. Their team works closely with clients to ensure that every case receives personal attention and care.

Find Out How Rosensteel Fleishman Can Help After a Car Accident in Lenoir, NC

If you or someone close to you has been injured in a car accident, reaching out for professional help can make all the difference. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain your options.

Their experienced attorneys serve clients throughout North Carolina, including Lenoir, and are ready to help you pursue justice and financial recovery. To speak with a lawyer today, call 1-704-714-1450.

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Disclaimer: This article is compiled from various secondary sources to provide insights into recent accidents. We have not been able to independently verify all details. Our firm respects the privacy and dignity of those involved and is willing to amend or remove content at the request of affected parties. We understand the emotional and physical toll of traffic accidents and extend our deepest sympathies to those affected. If you find any discrepancies or outdated information, or if you are an affected party, please contact us at 704-714-1450 or send us a message.

We value your feedback and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and reliability of the information presented.

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