Durham Police Sought Suspect in 2019 Fatal Hit-and-Run
Authorities are searching for a man charged in a 2019 collision that killed 30-year-old Danielle Noel.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Accidents
Durham police remain in search of 38-year-old Martir Maldonado for his role in a fatal September 30, 2019, hit-and-run incident. The crash occurred on U.S. 15-501 North near Cornwallis Road and claimed the life of Danielle Noel.
Why it matters
Law enforcement agencies frequently use cold case updates and reward incentives to generate new leads in long-standing open investigations. This case highlights ongoing efforts to secure accountability for victims of fatal motor vehicle incidents that occurred years prior.
Martir Maldonado faces felony hit-and-run, failure to reduce speed, and misdemeanor death by motor vehicle charges. A $2,000 cash reward is available for information leading to his arrest.
The players
Martir Maldonado
He is the 38-year-old suspect wanted by authorities for his involvement in a fatal 2019 vehicle collision.
Danielle Noel
She was the 30-year-old victim who died following a hit-and-run crash in Durham.
Durham Police
This is the municipal law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the fatal collision on U.S. 15-501 North.
The details
The fatal collision occurred when a maroon 1998 Honda Accord struck a disabled Chevrolet Blazer on the roadside. The driver of the Honda fled the scene on foot, leaving the victim behind.
Timeline
September 30, 2019: Danielle Noel died in a hit-and-run collision.
October 2019: Martir Maldonado was formally charged.
Legal Context
This case follows the standard procedural framework established by the 2019 North Carolina motor vehicle fatality reporting protocols. Local investigations into vehicular deaths rely on these specific statutes to process felony charges and long-term fugitive status.
Residents of Durham with information regarding the suspect's location are encouraged to contact authorities to assist in resolving this open case. The search impacts local safety by seeking to bring closure to a long-standing investigation involving a fatal collision.
The takeaway
Public assistance is often the final component needed to resolve cold cases involving fleeing suspects. Maintaining awareness of wanted individuals helps law enforcement agencies finalize long-term investigations.
Further reading
Find more updates on regional investigations on our Accidents page.
More information
To report information on the suspect, submit a CrimeStoppers tip through the official portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ABC11 Raleigh-Durham.
