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Grocery Worker Ann Grandfield Fatally Struck in Clayton Parking Lot on May 23, 2025

Published Date: May 27, 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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Clayton, NC (May 23, 2025) - According to local news reports, a tragic pedestrian accident claimed the life of a grocery store employee on Friday afternoon in Clayton, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 12:15 p.m. in the parking lot of the Lowes Foods located at 11711 Clayton Boulevard, off U.S. Highway 70.

Authorities confirmed that 52-year-old Ann Grandfield, a Clayton resident and Lowes Foods employee, was collecting shopping carts in the parking lot when she was struck by a vehicle. The driver, identified as 56-year-old Charlie Lee Walker Jr., also of Clayton, was operating a 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe at the time of the collision.

Emergency responders transported Grandfield to WakeMed Hospital in Raleigh. Initially listed in critical condition, she tragically passed away from her injuries later that day. The following afternoon, police confirmed her identity and issued a public update regarding the status of the investigation.

Walker has been charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle, a charge typically applied in cases involving unintentional vehicular fatalities where impairment or reckless intent is not alleged. Law enforcement officials have stated that the crash remains under active investigation, and further details may emerge as they review witness statements, vehicle data, and potential surveillance footage from the store’s parking lot.

The community is mourning the sudden loss of Grandfield, who was reportedly performing her routine job duties when the accident occurred. This fatality comes just three weeks after another pedestrian was struck and killed outside a different grocery store in nearby Smithfield, underscoring a concerning trend of parking lot incidents involving pedestrians in Johnston County.

Clayton Police Chief Greg Tart confirmed that Grandfield had been on duty, retrieving carts from the parking lot when she was hit. Multiple reports consistently note that the vehicle involved was a 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe, and that the collision occurred just after noon on May 23.

The tragic event highlights the risks that workers face even during everyday tasks and calls attention to the importance of cautious driving in pedestrian-heavy areas like store parking lots.


Working With a Personal Injury Attorney in Clayton, NC

When you’ve been hurt in an accident, getting your life back on track can feel overwhelming. That’s where working with a personal injury attorney in Clayton, NC becomes incredibly helpful. Whether it’s a pedestrian incident, a car crash, or a fall, legal support can make the entire process smoother. Attorneys with experience in personal injury law help guide you through insurance issues, paperwork, and legal decisions, so you’re not left trying to figure things out on your own.

Choosing a local attorney means you get someone who understands the area, the local laws, and how cases are handled in nearby courts. This kind of local knowledge can speed things up and help ensure nothing important gets overlooked. Personal injury attorneys in Clayton are used to dealing with a wide range of accident scenarios, and they know how to work with medical providers, insurance adjusters, and law enforcement to build a strong case.

The first step is often a free consultation. This gives you the chance to explain what happened, ask questions, and find out what your next move could be. There’s no pressure, and you get information that can help you make the right decision. If you’ve been injured in Clayton or the surrounding area, reaching out to a personal injury attorney near you can be a smart move.

Common Types of Cases Handled by Personal Injury Lawyers in Clayton, NC

Personal injury law covers many different situations. Local attorneys are frequently called on to help with:

  • Pedestrian accidents involving vehicles
  • Car, motorcycle, or truck crashes
  • Slip and fall injuries in stores or public places
  • Work-related injuries not covered by workers’ compensation
  • Wrongful death claims after a fatal incident

Each case is unique, and that’s why having a Clayton personal injury attorney who can take the time to understand your specific circumstances is so important.

Why a Personal Injury Lawyer in Clayton Can Make a Difference

Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. A personal injury lawyer in Clayton, NC knows the tactics used and can step in to negotiate on your behalf. They can help calculate the true cost of your injuries—things like ongoing treatment, missed work, and pain—and ensure you don’t accept a settlement that leaves you struggling later.

Legal representation also means peace of mind. While you focus on healing, your lawyer works on the legal side, managing deadlines, gathering evidence, and preparing documents. In short, a personal injury lawyer helps you protect your rights and move forward with confidence.

How Clayton Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help You After a Crash

Pedestrian accidents can cause serious injuries or even take lives in a split second. In the aftermath, victims and their families are often left with more questions than answers. That’s when contacting a Clayton pedestrian accident lawyer can be a big step toward getting the support you need. These attorneys focus on helping people who’ve been hit by vehicles while walking, working, or crossing the street.

Whether you were injured in a store parking lot or along a local road, a lawyer can help figure out what happened and what your legal rights are. In cases involving a fatality, they also assist families in filing wrongful death claims. Clayton pedestrian accident attorneys understand the laws that protect pedestrians and how to use those laws to build a solid case.

Steps a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Clayton, NC Will Take for You

From the moment you hire a lawyer, they begin working on your behalf. Some of the steps they typically take include:

  • Collecting surveillance video or witness statements
  • Reviewing police and medical reports
  • Identifying all possible sources of compensation
  • Handling all communication with insurance companies
  • Filing legal documents and representing you in court if needed

These actions help ensure your case is well-prepared and that you’re not missing any opportunities for recovery.

The Value of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Clayton, NC

There’s a lot to manage after a pedestrian accident—doctor’s appointments, time off work, and emotional stress. Having a Clayton pedestrian accident attorney on your side makes it easier to manage those challenges. They take care of the legal process while you focus on recovery.

Local attorneys also have relationships with nearby hospitals, police departments, and courts, which can help move your case along faster. They understand how to explain complex issues in clear, simple terms and provide real support every step of the way. If you or someone you love has been hit by a car in Clayton, connecting with a pedestrian accident lawyer near you is a practical and helpful next step.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Smart Choice for Pedestrian Accident Cases in Clayton

Accidents like the one that took place in Clayton can turn lives upside down in a matter of seconds. For families coping with a sudden loss, it’s hard to know what to do next or who to turn to. That’s where a reliable and experienced legal team can make a real difference. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers work with individuals and families across North Carolina, including Clayton, to help them find answers and pursue fair outcomes after serious pedestrian accidents.

Whether it's dealing with insurance claims, sorting through accident reports, or determining legal responsibility, having a legal team with experience in pedestrian accident cases can help remove some of the burdens during an already painful time. With a local focus and a responsive approach, Rosensteel Fleishman understands the challenges people face after being hit by a vehicle or losing someone they love in a traffic accident.

Their lawyers are based in Charlotte but assist clients throughout the state. This means that if you're in Clayton or Johnston County, you can reach out for help from a legal team that has handled similar cases and knows how to move things forward.

Starting with a free consultation, it's simple to connect with Rosensteel Fleishman by calling 1-704-714-1450. You don’t have to face this alone, and there are legal options available that can help you understand your rights, assess what happened, and take appropriate action if needed.

Why Legal Support Is Important After a Pedestrian Accident in Clayton

When someone is hit by a car while walking or working, the aftermath is often overwhelming. Medical bills, missed work, and emotional trauma can quickly pile up. In fatal cases, families are left to handle funeral expenses and the long-term impact of losing a loved one. This is why many turn to legal professionals like the team at Rosensteel Fleishman to help understand what rights they have and what steps can be taken.

Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Clayton Pedestrian Accident Case

One of the most valuable things a pedestrian accident attorney can offer is a clear and accurate understanding of how North Carolina law applies to your situation. Personal injury cases often hinge on details like timing, location, and driver behavior. A personal injury lawyer in Clayton, NC, will be able to investigate the scene, gather supporting evidence, and talk to witnesses so your claim is as strong as possible.

If you’re facing loss or injury after a pedestrian accident in Clayton, having a local law firm involved can help you feel more in control. Lawyers at Rosensteel Fleishman know the area, they’ve worked with local law enforcement, and they understand how to handle these cases efficiently.

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

A personal injury attorney in Clayton, NC, will not only handle the paperwork and negotiations but also guide you through the legal process with patience and clarity. Their job is to look out for your interests. Whether you’re seeking compensation for medical costs, lost wages, or emotional suffering, a lawyer helps you build your case while you focus on recovery or grieving.

In some cases, they can help prove that the driver’s actions were preventable or negligent, which can strengthen your legal claim. This includes accessing surveillance footage, reviewing police reports, and using expert opinions to support your side.

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Pedestrian Accident in Clayton, NC

Dealing with insurance adjusters on your own is often frustrating. Many people accept less than they deserve because they don’t know how to challenge low settlement offers. A Clayton pedestrian accident attorney can speak on your behalf and help ensure the insurance company doesn’t take advantage of the situation.

Rosensteel Fleishman’s team has handled claims throughout North Carolina and understands the subtle factors that can influence your case, from weather conditions to local traffic patterns. They can walk you through your options, whether you decide to settle or pursue a case in court.

How Rosensteel Fleishman Can Support Families Affected by the Clayton Pedestrian Accident

The loss of Ann Grandfield in the Clayton Lowes Foods parking lot is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly life can change. When a loved one dies in a tragic pedestrian accident, the shock is often followed by months of confusion and financial strain. Families may not know what compensation they are entitled to or how to hold the responsible party accountable. That’s where having a dedicated legal team can truly help.

Rosensteel Fleishman offers legal guidance to families throughout North Carolina, including those affected by incidents like the one in Clayton. Their experience with wrongful death and pedestrian injury claims means they can evaluate all aspects of your case, from determining fault to assessing damages. They work to ensure that your voice is heard and that justice is pursued in a professional, efficient, and respectful manner.

They also assist with practical needs—filing insurance claims, recovering lost wages, and calculating both immediate and long-term expenses related to the incident. These services can be vital during a time when energy and focus are already stretched thin by grief. With just a phone call to 1-704-714-1450, families can connect with someone who is ready to listen and act on their behalf.

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

When a serious accident happens, having a strong legal team can make all the difference. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers is based in Charlotte, NC, and their attorneys help people all over the state who have been injured in crashes, pedestrian accidents, and other personal injury situations. Their clients include people from towns just like Clayton who are dealing with real-life problems after a serious event.

One thing that makes Rosensteel Fleishman stand out is how they treat their clients—with respect, clarity, and care. According to co-founder Corey Rosensteel, “We believe our job is to make the legal process as simple and helpful as possible during one of the hardest times in someone’s life.” That attitude is what keeps people coming back and recommending them to friends and family when something goes wrong.

Having handled many pedestrian and car accident cases in North Carolina, this personal injury law firm knows how to work with the courts, the insurance companies, and the opposing lawyers to get things done. Their background gives them the ability to work quickly while keeping their clients informed every step of the way.

Call Rosensteel Fleishman Today for Help With Your Clayton Accident Case

Whether you're dealing with injuries, bills, or the loss of a loved one, you don’t have to go through it alone. Rosensteel Fleishman is available to help with pedestrian accident cases in Clayton and across North Carolina. They provide compassionate, knowledgeable support for people who need help navigating personal injury claims, and it starts with a simple phone call.

If you're in Clayton or the surrounding area and need legal help after a pedestrian accident, you can contact Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers at 1-704-714-1450. The consultation is free, and there's no pressure—just a real conversation about what happened and how they may be able to help.

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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.

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