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Pedestrian Vilma Clay Killed in I-40 Hit and Run Near Castle Hayne on October 15, 2025

Published Date: October 21, 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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Wilmington, NC (October 15, 2025) - According to local news reports, a tragic series of events unfolded on I-40 near the 415 mile marker close to Castle Hayne, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old woman from Cameron, North Carolina. The incident, which occurred around 9:16 p.m., is now under investigation by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP), who are actively seeking assistance from the public.

Initial reports reveal that a vehicle traveling the wrong direction on I-40—heading west in the eastbound lanes—collided with another car that had been correctly traveling east. After the impact, both vehicles came to a stop on the right shoulder of the highway. The driver of the first vehicle, later identified as Vilma Clay, exited her car and stepped onto the roadway. Moments later, she was fatally struck by an unidentified vehicle that continued driving without stopping.

Authorities have confirmed that Clay was pronounced dead at the scene. Due to the nature of the sequence, troopers are treating the incident as two separate collisions: the first being a property damage crash involving the two original vehicles, and the second being the fatal hit-and-run involving the pedestrian.

“The initial two vehicle property damage only collision and the hit-and-run fatality” are being investigated separately, NCSHP explained in a public statement. Officials urge anyone who may have seen the crash or has any relevant information to come forward and contact their local highway patrol office at 910-395-3917.

Investigators are particularly interested in identifying the vehicle and driver involved in the hit-and-run, as they fled the scene before authorities arrived. This part of the investigation remains active, and officials have not yet released any identifying details about the suspect vehicle.


Working With a Personal Injury Attorney in Wilmington, NC

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident, having a trusted personal injury attorney in Wilmington, NC can be a real lifeline. Whether you’re recovering from injuries, navigating medical bills, or unsure about how to talk to insurance companies, legal help can make the process far less overwhelming. A Wilmington personal injury lawyer helps you understand your rights, collect the right evidence, and ensure your voice is heard.

For many people, one of the hardest parts after an accident is figuring out where to begin. A good personal injury attorney steps in right away to handle the details you might not even realize are important. From documenting medical care to organizing witness statements and dealing with insurance adjusters, they’re focused on getting the best possible outcome while you focus on recovery.

Personal injury law firms in North Carolina, like those serving Wilmington, also offer peace of mind in knowing someone is working for your best interest. They can help assess what your case may be worth and explain what you should expect throughout the legal process. And because most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, you don’t have to pay anything upfront. They only get paid if you do.

How a Wilmington Personal Injury Lawyer Supports Your Case

When you hire a personal injury lawyer in Wilmington, they do more than just file paperwork. They take on the heavy lifting of your case so you can take care of your health and family. From car crashes to slip and falls, these attorneys understand how different types of injuries affect your life both now and in the future.

They also know how to counter insurance tactics that aim to minimize payouts. It’s common for insurance companies to offer quick settlements that may seem fair on the surface but fall short of covering long-term expenses. A Wilmington personal injury attorney will dig into the details, calculate what your case is truly worth, and push for fair compensation.

Their goal is to ensure that every part of your claim is backed by solid documentation and evidence. This includes reviewing police reports, talking to medical experts, and sometimes bringing in accident reconstruction professionals to explain what happened. With this kind of support, you’re much more likely to get a result that reflects the true impact of your injuries.

Why Timing Matters After a Personal Injury Accident

Acting quickly after an accident in Wilmington, NC is one of the most important things you can do. Waiting too long to speak with a lawyer can put your entire claim at risk. Evidence can disappear, witnesses may forget what they saw, and deadlines to file your claim can pass. A personal injury attorney helps you act within the legal timeline and protects your ability to recover damages.

North Carolina law has strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, and these can vary depending on the circumstances. The sooner you connect with a Wilmington personal injury law firm, the better your chances of building a strong, timely case. Prompt legal action can also help relieve stress by giving you a clear plan for what happens next.

How a Wilmington Car Accident Lawyer Can Help After a Crash

If you’ve been involved in a car crash in Wilmington, having a car accident lawyer on your side can make a big difference in how your case plays out. They bring experience, local knowledge, and a deep understanding of North Carolina traffic laws to every case. Whether your crash involved a hit and run, rear-end collision, or distracted driving, a car accident attorney in Wilmington can guide you through the legal process with confidence.

Car accidents often lead to more than just vehicle damage. You may be dealing with physical injuries, missed work, emotional stress, and mounting expenses. A lawyer’s job is to help you recover compensation for all of it. That includes not just medical costs, but also pain and suffering, long-term disability, and other non-economic damages.

What makes local attorneys even more valuable is their familiarity with Wilmington’s roads, court systems, and insurance policies. They’re often more accessible and better equipped to deal with issues that affect residents in the area. That’s why many people prefer to work with a Wilmington car accident lawyer instead of a national firm.

What a Wilmington Car Accident Attorney Does for You

A car accident attorney in Wilmington, NC starts by reviewing every aspect of your case. They’ll go over the crash report, talk to witnesses, examine medical records, and assess damage to your vehicle. From there, they build a strong case to negotiate with insurance companies or present in court if necessary.

This process is critical in cases where liability is unclear or where more than one party may be at fault. North Carolina’s contributory negligence law means that if you're found even slightly at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages. A skilled Wilmington car accident attorney works to prove your case and protect your right to compensation.

If a settlement offer is made, your lawyer will help you evaluate it and decide if it’s worth accepting. If not, they’re ready to move forward with litigation. At every step, their focus is on helping you reach a fair resolution.

Why Choosing a Local Car Accident Law Firm Matters

Choosing a local Wilmington car accident law firm ensures that your legal team understands the specific challenges faced by accident victims in the area. They know how local courts operate, which insurers are more difficult to work with, and what strategies tend to be most effective in North Carolina cases.

A firm based in North Carolina is also more likely to offer personalized service. You’re not just another case number. They take time to understand your story, check in with your recovery, and adjust strategies based on your evolving needs. With a Wilmington car accident lawyer, you get support that’s not only professional but also genuinely invested in your well-being.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman is a Smart Choice for Car Accident Cases in Wilmington

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, especially one as devastating as a fatal hit-and-run, can be overwhelming for victims and their families. When you’re already facing the emotional toll of loss or injury, handling legal paperwork, insurance negotiations, or even just knowing what to do next can feel impossible. That’s why connecting with a reliable legal team in Wilmington can be one of the most important decisions you make.

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers understands how difficult life becomes after a serious car crash. They’ve worked with people who didn’t know where to start or what steps to take, and they’ve guided them through the legal process from day one. Whether you’re a family member grieving a loved one or someone recovering from an injury, you don’t have to handle it all on your own.

Getting help doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. With just one phone call to 1-704-714-1450, you can speak directly with someone who will walk you through your options. The consultation is free, and there’s no pressure or obligation. It’s simply a way to learn what your rights are and how the law firm may be able to help.

If you or someone you care about has been affected by a car accident in Wilmington, this team is here to listen and offer legal guidance. You won’t be treated like just another case. You’ll be treated like someone who deserves answers and support during one of the hardest moments of your life.

Why Legal Support is Important After a Personal Injury Accident

Accidents like the recent hit-and-run on I-40 show just how quickly lives can change. Whether it's a fatal crash or a serious injury, the effects ripple through families and communities. Having a personal injury attorney in Wilmington, NC can make a big difference in how victims and their families manage the aftermath.

Legal support goes beyond filing a lawsuit. It’s about making sure your medical bills, lost wages, and other costs don’t fall solely on your shoulders. A Wilmington personal injury lawyer can help make sure insurance companies are held accountable, evidence is preserved, and deadlines are met. When emotions are high and the situation is unclear, having a steady legal advocate can make the road forward less uncertain.

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

Choosing to work with a personal injury law firm in North Carolina gives you access to resources and experience you may not have on your own. From tracking down witness statements to analyzing accident reports and negotiating with insurers, a Wilmington personal injury attorney takes care of the details so you can focus on healing or helping your family cope.

Here are just a few advantages of working with a firm like Rosensteel Fleishman:

  • They know how to investigate accidents thoroughly and effectively.
  • They can speak directly with insurance companies on your behalf.
  • They offer clear explanations of your legal rights and options.
  • They work on contingency, so you don’t pay unless your case is successful.
  • They keep you informed every step of the way.

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

A Wilmington car accident lawyer steps in to handle everything from the first phone call to the final resolution. That includes evaluating the full impact of the accident, calculating damages, and representing you in court if needed. In hit-and-run cases like the one involving Vilma Clay, this kind of legal help is especially important. Gathering evidence and identifying liable parties takes time and legal know-how that most people don’t have on their own.

Your attorney works to hold all responsible parties accountable, including drivers who flee the scene. They may also help with accessing benefits through your own insurance if the driver is never found. No matter how complex the case, having someone in your corner makes a big difference.

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

Even when fault seems clear, victims often struggle to get fair treatment from insurers. A personal injury attorney in Wilmington, NC can step in to make sure you’re not pushed into accepting less than what’s fair. From minor injuries to catastrophic loss, these lawyers know how to build strong cases that support full compensation.

Rosensteel Fleishman focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and tailoring their legal approach accordingly. Whether your claim involves a fatality, serious medical care, or long-term recovery, they aim to get you the help you need without delay.

How Rosensteel Fleishman Helps Wilmington Families After Serious Accidents

The tragedy that occurred on I-40 near Castle Hayne highlights just how suddenly and severely lives can be impacted by reckless or negligent drivers. For the family of Vilma Clay, the pain of losing a loved one has only been made worse by the fact that the driver responsible for her death fled the scene. In moments like these, families often need help understanding their legal rights and figuring out what comes next.

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers helps families in Wilmington and throughout North Carolina pursue justice in situations just like this. Whether it's a wrongful death claim, uninsured motorist coverage, or a civil investigation, they help sort through all the legal avenues available. Their team assists clients in locating evidence, managing insurance paperwork, and pressing for accountability in court when needed.

In hit-and-run incidents, gathering information quickly is critical. A law firm with experience handling these kinds of cases can begin the investigation immediately, even when law enforcement efforts are ongoing. This kind of proactive legal support can be essential for preserving claims and building a strong case for the victim’s family.

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

One of the reasons so many North Carolinians turn to Rosensteel Fleishman is because of how approachable and experienced they are. With offices in Charlotte but a reach that spans across the state, they have supported clients in communities like Wilmington through some of their most difficult moments.

Whether it’s a car crash, a wrongful death, or a serious injury, their team knows the emotional and financial weight people carry after an accident. They don’t just handle the paperwork. They take the time to listen, explain options clearly, and offer real solutions. It’s that level of personal commitment that sets them apart.

“We’re not just here to file claims. We’re here to help real people find real answers,” said Corey Rosensteel, one of the firm’s attorneys.

Working with a North Carolina personal injury law firm like Rosensteel Fleishman can give you the confidence that someone is protecting your rights. From day one, their focus is on helping you move forward with clarity and peace of mind.

Reach Out for a Free Consultation with a Wilmington Car Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious car accident in Wilmington, you don’t have to go through it alone. Getting help is as easy as making a phone call. Rosensteel Fleishman offers free consultations and will take the time to hear your story and explain what options are available.

Their team of personal injury and car accident lawyers is available to serve clients throughout North Carolina. With deep experience in wrongful death, hit-and-run, and insurance disputes, they can offer valuable support when it’s most needed. Just call 1-704-714-1450 to get started today.

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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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