Durham Police Renew Search for Fatal Hit-and-Run Suspect
Authorities are seeking public information on a suspect wanted in a 2019 fatal collision on U.S. 15-501.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Accidents
Durham police have renewed their request for information regarding a 2019 hit-and-run that claimed the life of Danielle Noel. The suspect, Martir Maldonado, remains at large seven years after the incident.
Why it matters
The investigation remains active as authorities seek to secure justice for the victim's family. Investigators believe the suspect may have fled the country shortly after the warrants were issued.
Arrest warrants were issued for Martir Maldonado on October 8, 2019, following the fatal collision on U.S. Highway 15-501. The suspect has not been apprehended and is suspected to have left the United States.
The players
Danielle Noel
She was the victim of a fatal hit-and-run collision on U.S. Highway 15-501 in 2019.
Martir Maldonado
He is the primary suspect in the fatal 2019 hit-and-run and has been the subject of arrest warrants since October 2019.
Officer Munter
He is a representative of the Durham Police Department who recently issued a public plea for information regarding the long-standing case.
The details
An investigator from the Durham Traffic and Crash Team is managing the cold case and is asking members of the public to come forward with any relevant tips. Danielle Noel was struck and killed near the intersection of U.S. Highway 15-501 and Cornwallis Road in 2019.
Timeline
September 30, 2019: Danielle Noel was struck and killed.
October 8, 2019: Arrest warrants were issued for Martir Maldonado.
October 7, 2026: Officer Munter made a recent request for information.
Legal Context
This case follows the established pattern of law enforcement agencies reopening cold investigations by soliciting updated tips from the public. It reflects the ongoing procedural efforts to resolve high-profile hit-and-run incidents that have remained open for years.
Residents in the area near U.S. Highway 15-501 and Cornwallis Road are encouraged to report any long-held information that could assist the Traffic and Crash Team. The ongoing search reinforces the need for public vigilance in identifying suspects involved in serious local traffic crimes.
The takeaway
This case serves as a reminder that law enforcement continues to prioritize cold cases long after the initial event. Community members can assist investigators by providing any overlooked details that may lead to the location of a suspect.
Further reading
For more information on local investigations, visit the Durham accidents section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WRAL.
