FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville community is reeling from the tragic loss of Angel Rodriguez, a 41-year-old father of five, who was fatally struck by a vehicle while walking on a sidewalk near his home on Robeson Street. The incident occurred around 11:00 p.m. on July 23, 2025, near the intersection of Robeson Street and Whitfield Street.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find Rodriguez deceased. Known for his quiet strength and unwavering dedication to his family, Rodriguez was a cherished member of the community. He leaves behind a grieving wife and five children, who are now grappling with the profound loss of a loving husband and father.

The Fayetteville Police Department reported that the driver responsible for the crash fled the scene. Following an investigation, authorities arrested Angela Cheveena Harrington, 37, of Fayetteville. Harrington faces multiple charges, including felony death by motor vehicle, felony hit-and-run, driving while impaired, failure to maintain lane, no operator’s license, and misdemeanor child abuse. The child abuse charge stems from the presence of a child in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Police allege that Harrington was under the influence at the time of the incident, a factor they believe contributed directly to Rodriguez’s death. She was taken into custody and is being held at the Cumberland County Detention Center on a $105,000 bond.

The investigation into the crash remains active, with authorities working to uncover the full details of the incident. The Fayetteville Police Department is urging anyone with information to contact Detective C. Biggerstaff at (910) 751-1382 or submit anonymous tips to Fayetteville / Cumberland County Crimestoppers at (910) 483-TIPS (8477). Tips can also be submitted electronically.

The Rodriguez family has been enveloped by an outpouring of support from the Fayetteville community, with neighbors and friends offering condolences and assistance during this heartbreaking time. Angel Rodriguez is remembered as a hardworking man, a devoted father, and a kind neighbor whose life was cut short in a senseless tragedy.

As the community mourns, calls for justice for Angel Rodriguez and his family echo loudly. The legal process is underway, and residents are standing in solidarity with the Rodriguez family, hoping for accountability and healing in the wake of this devastating loss.