Officer Gabriel Stainback Fatally Struck While Biking in Concord on September 20, 2025

Concord, NC (September 20, 2025) – According to local news reports, a tragic accident claimed the life of 26-year-old Officer Gabriel Stainback of the Cornelius Police Department while he was off duty and cycling with his wife. The incident occurred on Saturday, September 13, on Miami Church Road in Concord when he was struck from behind by a 2020 Toyota 4Runner. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officer Stainback was wearing a helmet, a reflective vest, and had a rear light on his bicycle at the time of the crash. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate, and while no charges have been filed, the inquiry remains open. Troopers have stated that impairment was not suspected.

The impact of Officer Stainback’s death has been deeply felt across both the Cornelius and Concord communities. Stainback, a Concord native and graduate of Concord High School, was known for his achievements both in academics and athletics. He was a standout track and field athlete at High Point University, where he earned numerous honors, including three Big South Decathlon Championships and seven All-Conference recognitions. His personal record of 6,904 points in the decathlon ranks third in High Point University’s history.

Stainback joined the Cornelius Police Department in December 2024 and was in his first year on the force. He was recently selected to become a middle school resource officer, a role colleagues say he was excited to begin. Deputy Chief Jennifer Thompson shared, “To be able to have the positive influence and positive impact on middle school-aged kids, we were really looking forward to that and we hate that he never got that opportunity.”

The officer’s funeral was held on Friday, September 19, at Bethel Baptist Church Ministries in Kannapolis. The ceremony began with a procession from Hartsell Funeral Home in Concord, and officers from across the region gathered to honor his service.

Members of the community have expressed their grief and support in various ways. Residents have left flowers and tributes at the Cornelius Police Department, recognizing the dedication and positive energy Officer Stainback brought to the force and to the people he served. America Espinoza, a Cornelius resident, left sunflowers in his memory, stating, “Just knowing that he worked here, kept us all safe and never felt any fear being around here.”

High Point University coaches remembered Stainback fondly. Dr. Scott Hall described him as “a bright light in the room” and “an all-around great teammate.” Head coach Mike Esposito added, “Gabe was such an amazing young man who came from an amazing family. He was one of our all-time favorite student-athletes and he is going to be missed dearly.”

Cornelius Police Chief David Baucom summed up the department’s grief, saying, “Gabriel was not only a great Police Officer, he was a great person. He had accomplished so much in his short lifetime. From his loving wife and family to all of his friends, it is obvious he was loved deeply by everyone. He was a servant in every aspect of his life and will be deeply missed.”

What a Personal Injury Attorney in Concord, NC Can Do for You

Suffering an injury in an accident is overwhelming. Whether it's a car crash, a fall, or a bicycle collision, the aftermath can include medical bills, time off work, and stress about what comes next. That’s where a personal injury attorney in Concord, NC can help. These legal professionals are here to step in, handle the hard parts, and make sure your rights are protected.

A good attorney doesn’t just file paperwork. They talk with doctors, deal with insurance companies, gather evidence, and calculate the full extent of your losses. That includes not only your medical expenses, but also pain, emotional distress, and future lost income. If negotiations don’t lead to a fair settlement, a Concord personal injury lawyer can take your case to court and fight on your behalf.

Working with a local attorney means you have someone familiar with North Carolina law and the court systems in Concord. That knowledge can make a big difference in how quickly your case moves and how well it’s handled. It’s also easier to meet in person and communicate regularly with a legal team that’s close to home.

When something as life-changing as an injury happens, you don’t need to figure everything out on your own. A personal injury attorney in Concord, NC can be the resource you need to get answers and move forward with confidence.

How a Concord Personal Injury Lawyer Builds a Strong Case

The process of building a personal injury case starts with collecting information. Your attorney will gather medical records, accident reports, photos, and witness statements. They’ll also work with professionals like doctors and accident reconstruction experts if needed to show how the injury occurred and how it has impacted your life.

Next comes dealing with insurance companies. Insurers often try to minimize payouts, but your Concord personal injury lawyer knows how to push back. They’ll handle those negotiations and fight for the compensation you actually deserve, not just what’s initially offered.

If settlement talks break down, your attorney is ready to take the next step. That could mean filing a lawsuit and preparing for trial. From start to finish, they are there to guide and support you every step of the way. Their goal is not only to win your case, but also to help you feel informed and empowered during the process.

When You Should Contact a Personal Injury Attorney in Concord, NC

It’s smart to reach out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident. Waiting too long can mean losing valuable evidence or missing important legal deadlines. In North Carolina, there’s a limited time to file personal injury claims, so getting legal help quickly is key.

If you’ve been hurt and are unsure what your next step should be, talking to a Concord personal injury attorney can provide clarity. Many offer free consultations, so it won’t cost you anything to learn about your rights and options. Whether your injury is minor or serious, knowing where you stand legally is always a smart move.

Why a Concord Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Make a Difference

Bicycle accidents are some of the most dangerous incidents on the road. Cyclists are vulnerable to severe injuries, especially when they’re hit by cars or trucks. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle crash in Concord, having the support of a bicycle accident lawyer who understands how these cases work can help protect your future.

These types of cases require a close look at traffic laws, driver behavior, and road conditions. It’s not always clear who is at fault, and insurance companies may try to blame the cyclist. A Concord bicycle accident lawyer will examine every detail, from the position of the bike to the visibility and actions of the driver involved. They’ll fight to make sure the true story is heard and your rights are fully defended.

Medical bills after a bike crash can pile up fast. A legal team that handles bicycle injury cases can work to recover damages for your hospital visits, rehab, lost wages, and even long-term care if needed. If the crash was fatal, they can also help surviving family members with a wrongful death claim.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Concord, NC

Bicycle accidents happen for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:

• Drivers failing to yield or check blind spots
• Distracted or speeding drivers
• Poorly maintained roads or bike lanes
• Dooring incidents (where a car door opens into the cyclist’s path)
• Intersections where drivers misjudge distance or speed

A bicycle accident attorney in Concord, NC knows how to investigate these causes and identify who should be held accountable. Whether it’s a driver, a government entity responsible for road maintenance, or another party, your lawyer will work to uncover the truth and pursue the compensation you need.

What to Expect When Working With a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Concord, NC

When you choose to work with a Concord bicycle accident lawyer, the process starts with a detailed conversation about what happened. You’ll explain your side of the story, share any documents or photos, and ask questions about what comes next. From there, your lawyer will take over the heavy lifting.

They’ll contact the other parties involved, file insurance claims, and gather additional evidence if needed. If you’re still undergoing treatment, they’ll monitor your progress and factor that into the value of your case. They’ll also communicate with you regularly so you never feel left in the dark.

In the end, their job is to protect your rights, fight for fair compensation, and give you peace of mind that someone is on your side. Whether your case settles out of court or ends up in front of a judge, your attorney will be there to advocate for you.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Smart Choice for Concord Bicycle Accident Cases

In the aftermath of a tragic event like the loss of Officer Gabriel Stainback, families are left grieving while also facing the uncertainty of what to do next. When someone is injured or killed in a bicycle accident, the legal process that follows can feel overwhelming. That’s where working with a trusted team of attorneys like those at Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers in North Carolina becomes incredibly important. They help people take the next steps with clarity and compassion.

Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Concord Bicycle Accident Case

Having a personal injury law firm in North Carolina that regularly handles cases in Concord can make a big difference. Local lawyers understand the regional laws, court systems, and investigative practices that are common in the area. This helps them better prepare for your case and address every detail that may impact your claim. Rosensteel Fleishman is based in Charlotte and has years of experience helping victims of personal injury and wrongful death claims across the state, including Concord.

They work directly with families and individuals to ensure every part of their case is handled properly, whether it’s dealing with insurance adjusters, gathering evidence, or pursuing a lawsuit when necessary. Their familiarity with the legal processes in nearby areas like Concord can provide a smoother experience during a very difficult time.

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

A personal injury lawyer in Concord can assist with more than just filing a claim. From the moment you reach out, their team can begin gathering facts, preserving evidence, speaking with witnesses, and communicating with insurance companies on your behalf. This means you don’t have to worry about paperwork or complicated legal questions while you’re still processing the event.

They also help determine the full extent of damages—both economic and non-economic—that apply to your situation. This might include medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one or experiencing trauma after a crash. The attorneys at Rosensteel Fleishman are committed to making sure your rights are protected and that you’re not left handling these challenges alone.

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Bicycle Accident in Concord, NC

After a bicycle accident in Concord, especially one involving serious injury or death, emotions are high and the timeline for gathering evidence can be short. An experienced Concord personal injury attorney knows what needs to happen quickly and how to deal with accident reports, scene reconstructions, and medical evaluations.

Working with a team like Rosensteel Fleishman can also help answer important questions. Was the driver at fault? Did they act negligently? Are there signs of liability beyond the obvious? These are questions a family shouldn’t have to answer alone, and having someone on your side who is well-versed in Concord, NC bicycle accident law can make a tremendous difference.

Helping Families Affected by Bicycle Accidents Like the One in Concord

Losing someone in a bicycle accident is heartbreaking, especially when it involves a young officer like Gabriel Stainback, who had just begun his career in law enforcement. For families going through this kind of pain, having legal support may not remove the hurt, but it can provide relief when navigating difficult decisions. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers is available to assist individuals and families in Concord and throughout North Carolina with legal options following similar bicycle accidents.

They offer compassionate guidance at a time when answers are needed the most. While the outcome of the ongoing investigation into Officer Stainback’s death is still pending, it serves as a reminder of how suddenly lives can be changed and how important it is to have professional legal help ready if needed. Whether the incident results in a personal injury or a fatality, families benefit from having someone look into every angle, ensuring their rights and needs are respected. The law firm is ready to provide that support for anyone in Concord facing uncertainty after a serious accident.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Trusted Law Firm for Injury Victims in North Carolina

People choose Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers because they’re a law firm that listens, responds, and genuinely works for your best outcome. Based in Charlotte but serving Concord and communities across North Carolina, they handle bicycle accident claims, car crashes, and a wide range of personal injury cases. Their attorneys are hands-on, which means when you call, you speak with a real person who wants to help.

One of the firm’s founding attorneys, Corey Rosensteel, puts it this way: “Every client deserves to be treated like a priority. Whether it's a big case or a small one, we bring the same attention and care to every situation.” That mindset is why so many people feel confident trusting Rosensteel Fleishman with their legal matters.

Working with a local North Carolina law firm that understands how to handle Concord bicycle accident cases can make the process feel less intimidating. They don’t throw around legal jargon. Instead, they explain things in everyday terms and walk with you step by step. If you’ve been hurt or lost someone in an accident, their team is here to make sure you’re not alone through the process.

Start Your Free Consultation With a Concord Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you or someone in your family has been affected by a bicycle accident in Concord, reaching out for legal help can be a smart move. Rosensteel Fleishman makes it easy to start with a free consultation. There’s no pressure, just answers and support when you need it most.

They’ve built a strong reputation by helping individuals across North Carolina with car accidents, bicycle injuries, and personal injury claims. Their knowledge of how to handle Concord bicycle accident cases means you can focus on recovery while they focus on results. Call 1-704-714-1450 today to schedule your free consultation. Let them take the legal stress off your plate so you can focus on healing and moving forward.