A 17-year-old died after an alleged drunk driver hit him while he walked home late Friday night.
A Chevrolet pickup truck driven by , 45, of Hubert was driving southbound down Queens Creek Road around 9 p.m. when he ran off the road, said Highway Patrol Trooper M.T. Bryan.
Master Sergeant Rodriguez, an active duty Marine, allegedly ran off to the right around a left-hand turn, collided with a curve left warning sign, and hit Joseph Collins, 17, of Jacksonville, who was walking down the road toward a family member’s home after going to the store, Bryan said.
Collins was transported to Onslow Memorial Hospital where he died, Bryan said.
Rodriguez is accused of fleeing after the wreck but was found and arrested a short time later at his home, Bryan said.
He has been charged with driving while impaired, felony hit and run, felony death by motor vehicle, and careless and reckless driving.
Bryan said Rodriguez took a breathalyzer test Friday night but he could not release the results due to the ongoing investigation.
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The MSgt should be tried and should he be convicted.It is my opinion that he receive punishment to the full extent of the law.. I hate to see any Marine go thru this, however he should have stopped, called 911 and rendered aid. He offered up his own life, when he joined the Corps. Now he needs to stand up, man up and be responsible for his actions. Respectfully submitted.
He’s been bailed out of prison atm