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.
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Durham, NC (October 02, 2025) – According to local news reports, a high-speed crash involving an attempted traffic stop and suspected street racing took the life of a Durham father late Thursday night. The incident began around 11:15 p.m. when deputies with the Durham County Sheriff’s Office attempted to pull over a Ford F-150 pickup truck suspected of racing another vehicle near Carpenter Fletcher Road and North Carolina Highway 55.
Authorities stated that the driver of the Ford F-150, later identified as 18-year-old Kevin Aljeandro Ruiz-Gomez of Durham, shut off his headlights and fled from law enforcement. In a matter of minutes, Gomez reportedly ran a red light at the intersection of NC Highway 55 and Riddle Road, slamming into a Dodge Charger and also striking a power pole. The crash caused significant damage to infrastructure and shut down the intersection for hours.
The driver of the Charger, 36-year-old Jamal D. Parker of Durham, was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger riding in the Charger was injured and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Ruiz-Gomez, the driver of the pickup truck, also sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital. Following medical care, he was placed under arrest.
Ruiz-Gomez now faces a wide array of serious charges including assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, misdemeanor death by vehicle, fleeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle, reckless driving with wanton disregard, speed competition, and multiple traffic violations. Additional citations include failure to burn headlamps, failure to heed lights or siren, driving left of center, and driving while license revoked.
During his court appearance, the judge set Ruiz-Gomez’s bond at \$1.5 million, which was notably higher than what both the defense and prosecution had requested. Court records confirm that Ruiz-Gomez remains in custody at the Durham County Detention Facility and is expected to appear in court again on October 27.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol and local deputies confirmed that Ruiz-Gomez was a student at Hillside High School. Officials have also ordered that he have no contact with the victim's family during the ongoing legal proceedings.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash as they examine all factors contributing to the fatal collision. This tragic event has brought attention to the dangers of illegal street racing and the devastating impact reckless driving can have on innocent families.
How a Personal Injury Attorney in Durham, NC Can Support You
Accidents often leave people with more than just physical injuries. The stress of medical expenses, time away from work, and long-term recovery can weigh heavily on victims and their families. This is where a personal injury attorney in Durham, NC steps in to provide support. They help guide you through the process of holding negligent parties accountable while making sure your rights are protected.
A personal injury lawyer is there to carefully review the details of your case, collect the evidence needed, and ensure your story is clearly represented. Whether your injuries stem from a car crash, slip and fall, or another incident, having a professional legal team by your side helps ease the pressure during a difficult time.
Why Working With a Personal Injury Attorney in Durham, NC Matters
Having an attorney handle the paperwork and negotiations means you can focus on healing instead of dealing with endless calls from insurance companies. A personal injury attorney in Durham, NC will make sure all aspects of your damages are considered, including medical bills, lost wages, and future care needs.
This level of representation can be the difference between a settlement that only covers part of your losses and one that fully reflects the true impact of the accident. By working with a law firm familiar with the courts in North Carolina, you gain the advantage of local experience and reliable guidance.
Why Hiring a Durham Car Accident Lawyer Is a Smart Choice
Car accidents in Durham can quickly turn lives upside down, leaving victims unsure of their next steps. From dealing with police reports to managing complex insurance claims, it can feel overwhelming without the right help. A Durham car accident lawyer takes on these responsibilities so victims can focus on recovering both physically and emotionally.
These attorneys are familiar with how accident claims work in North Carolina and know how to push back against low settlement offers. By having someone who understands the ins and outs of local law, you are better prepared to pursue compensation that reflects the full scope of your losses.
What a Durham Car Accident Lawyer Can Do for You
A Durham car accident lawyer provides step-by-step support after a crash. They investigate the scene, gather witness statements, review law enforcement findings, and ensure no important detail is overlooked. With this foundation, they build a strong case designed to hold the responsible party accountable.
Beyond evidence gathering, these lawyers handle the back-and-forth with insurance companies, making sure that your rights are not ignored. They also calculate damages fairly, considering medical care, ongoing therapy, and the potential for long-term financial strain. With a lawyer on your side, you have someone committed to fighting for your recovery.
Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Smart Choice for Car Accident Cases in Durham
When tragedy strikes on North Carolina roads, the legal process that follows can feel overwhelming. In the wake of a traumatic car accident, having the right legal support can make a world of difference. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers, based in Charlotte, has become a trusted resource for individuals across the state, including those impacted by incidents in Durham.
Car accidents like the one that claimed Jamal Parker’s life involve complex layers of liability, criminal conduct, and emotional damage. While law enforcement handles the criminal aspect, families are often left to deal with the insurance companies, medical bills, and legal paperwork on their own. That’s where working with an experienced legal team can help shoulder the burden.
With Rosensteel Fleishman, people are met with straightforward, honest legal guidance. They take the time to explain your rights, review the details of your case, and work directly with the insurance companies on your behalf. This kind of support is essential when families are dealing with the aftermath of a fatal accident, especially one involving reckless behavior or fleeing suspects.
Scheduling a free consultation is easy and completely pressure-free. If you're in Durham or anywhere in North Carolina and you're dealing with the aftermath of a car crash, a quick call to 1-704-714-1450 is a solid first step in getting the help you need.
Why Legal Support Is Important After a Personal Injury Accident
Car accident victims and their families are often left wondering where to turn once the dust settles. In cases where a loved one has been seriously injured or lost their life, the need for legal support becomes even more important. Hiring a personal injury lawyer in Durham offers clarity, protection, and a sense of control during a chaotic and painful time.
Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Durham Car Accident Case
Working with a personal injury law firm in North Carolina can help take the guesswork out of the legal process. These firms are familiar with state laws, understand local court procedures, and know how to handle tough insurance negotiations. A team like Rosensteel Fleishman brings experience and resources to the table that individuals simply don’t have access to on their own.
They can handle:
- Investigating accident scenes and gathering evidence
- Coordinating with law enforcement reports and medical providers
- Negotiating with insurance companies for fair compensation
- Filing legal paperwork properly and on time
- Representing clients in court if necessary
Every accident is different, and a personal injury attorney in Durham, NC can adapt your case strategy based on the facts.
What Does a Durham Accident Lawyer Do? How Can They Help?
A Durham car accident lawyer provides far more than just court representation. From the moment you contact them, they start building a case to protect your interests. Whether it's wrongful death, serious injuries, or long-term medical costs, a lawyer ensures those damages are not overlooked or undervalued by insurance adjusters.
They’ll also help calculate damages that go beyond immediate medical costs. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future care costs can all be part of a personal injury claim. For families who’ve lost a loved one in a crash, a wrongful death claim may also be appropriate. An experienced car accident attorney in Durham, NC can guide you through these options with clear, practical advice.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Car Accident in Durham, NC
Right after a crash, most people don’t have the energy or capacity to deal with legal matters. A personal injury lawyer near you can take over that responsibility and make sure nothing is missed. They communicate with all parties, file claims correctly, and help pursue a result that reflects the severity of the accident.
Having someone on your side who is focused on your recovery, while also handling the legal tasks, gives you the space to focus on healing. Especially in accidents involving reckless or criminal behavior, such as street racing or fleeing from police, a legal team helps ensure accountability.
Helping Families Affected by the Durham Car Accident
In the devastating aftermath of the Durham crash that took the life of Jamal Parker, families are left grieving while also having to deal with confusing and burdensome legal processes. This is when guidance from a personal injury attorney in Durham becomes not just helpful but necessary. With emotions running high and countless questions about liability, insurance, and compensation, a law firm like Rosensteel Fleishman provides a steady and knowledgeable hand.
The firm understands how painful it is to suddenly lose a loved one in a crash caused by someone else’s reckless decisions. These aren’t just legal cases—they're personal stories filled with grief, disrupted lives, and unanswered questions. That’s why Rosensteel Fleishman treats each case with the compassion and commitment it deserves.
For families like Jamal Parker’s, legal support means making sure no corners are cut and no voice goes unheard. Whether it’s helping the surviving passenger seek compensation for medical care or assisting the family with a wrongful death claim, the firm brings a deep level of care to every client interaction. They help families focus on what matters most—healing and honoring their loved one—while they take care of the paperwork and legal steps needed to seek justice.
Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident and Injury Case in North Carolina
Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers is based in Charlotte, NC, and serves clients across the state, including those affected by car crashes in Durham. When families face situations like the one that occurred on October 2, they need more than just legal representation—they need real answers, genuine communication, and a team that takes their pain seriously.
What makes this firm stand out is their ability to make clients feel supported while still pursuing results. As attorney Corey Rosensteel puts it, “Every case is personal to us. We listen, we care, and we fight for what our clients need.”
People across North Carolina choose Rosensteel Fleishman not just because they handle accident cases every day, but because they are known for listening first and acting quickly. Their approach is never one-size-fits-all. Instead, it’s about understanding the specifics of your accident and delivering practical solutions that get results.
Call Today to Speak With a North Carolina Injury Lawyer Who Cares
No one ever plans to be involved in a serious accident, and when it happens, the path forward can feel unclear. That’s why reaching out to a law firm like Rosensteel Fleishman can be a powerful first step. If you or your family were affected by a car accident in Durham or anywhere in North Carolina, getting help doesn’t have to be complicated.
Their team is available to answer your questions, review your case for free, and provide guidance with no pressure. All it takes is a phone call to 1-704-714-1450 to get started. Whether you're seeking answers, compensation, or just someone to take some weight off your shoulders, Rosensteel Fleishman is ready to support you through it.
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