Albemarle, NC (July 29, 2026) - Based on reports from local authorities, a multi-vehicle collision on US-52 left a Stanly County Public Transportation bus driver dead and another driver seriously injured Wednesday morning.

Officers and emergency responders were dispatched to US-52 at Salisbury Avenue at approximately 6:45 a.m. A Stanly County Public Transportation bus and a Ford pickup were traveling north when a southbound Jeep reportedly struck an object in the roadway. Police said the Jeep driver lost control, crossed into the northbound lanes, and collided head-on with the bus. The Ford pickup then struck the rear of the bus.

The bus driver, identified as 60-year-old Stella Redfearn Dase of Albemarle, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Jeep driver sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital. No other injuries were reported.

Investigators traced the roadway debris to a vehicle driven by 37-year-old Dustin Kendall of New London. Kendall was charged with failure to secure a load and expired vehicle registration. The charges reflect the findings reported by police and do not represent a final determination in court.

Dase had worked for the Stanly County transportation department since 2007. County officials remembered her as a caring, dependable, and dedicated employee who would be missed by her relatives, friends, and coworkers.

US-52 was temporarily closed while investigators examined the scene and crews removed the vehicles and debris. The investigation remained ongoing. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact the Albemarle Police Department at 704-984-7500 or Stanly County Crime Stoppers at 704-986-3700.

How A Multi Vehicle Crash Is Reviewed

A collision involving several vehicles and roadway debris can lead to a detailed review of how the event unfolded. Investigators may examine the debris, vehicle positions, impact locations, photographs, witness accounts, and available video to establish the sequence of events. Load securement records and the condition of the vehicles may also become relevant.

After a serious car accident, insurance companies typically compare property damage findings with medical records and other documentation. Families may choose to work with an auto accident attorney when reviewing insurance questions, available coverage, and the records connected to a potential claim.

The review may continue after the roadway reopens. Medical treatment, repair estimates, employment records, and official reports can help document the financial and personal effects of the collision while insurers evaluate responsibility and damages.

When Families Consider Professional Guidance

Families dealing with a death or serious injury often face practical responsibilities while they are still processing the event. They may need to organize records, communicate with insurance carriers, track expenses, and understand how an investigation could affect a car accident claim.

Important matters families may examine include:

  • Police reports and supporting evidence
  • Medical bills and treatment documentation
  • Insurance coverage for each involved vehicle
  • Lost income and other household expenses
  • Deadlines that may apply to a claim

For people in Albemarle, the process may involve local police records, regional medical providers, and insurers operating across North Carolina. Information about legal services in Albemarle can help explain how a Charlotte-based firm may serve clients in the community and throughout the state.

What Albemarle Families Can Consider After A Serious Crash

As records and insurance communications accumulate, it can become difficult to determine which losses should be documented and how they may be evaluated. Rosensteel Fleishman helps individuals and families examine both economic damages, such as medical costs, lost income, and property damage, and noneconomic damages, including pain, emotional distress, and changes to daily life after a car accident. Attorney Matthew Fleishman explains, “Families deserve to understand what happened and what options are available. The right support can make each next step easier to evaluate with confidence.”