Durham Police Identify Nissan in Fatal Hit-and-Run
Investigators are seeking information on a vehicle involved in an October 18 crash that killed 37-year-old Rakesh Babu Poojari.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Accidents
Durham authorities have identified a suspect vehicle, likely a Nissan sedan or small SUV, involved in a fatal hit-and-run on N.C. 147. The victim, 37-year-old Rakesh Babu Poojari, was struck and killed while standing on the freeway shoulder near Fayetteville Street.
Why it matters
Identifying the vehicle is a critical step for investigators working to locate the driver who fled the scene after striking the victim. Local officials are now leveraging community assistance to move the investigation forward.
CrimeStoppers is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case. Investigators recovered a Nissan emblem at the scene and confirmed the vehicle likely sustained front-end damage.
The players
Rakesh Babu Poojari
The 37-year-old victim of the fatal hit-and-run collision.
Durham Police Department
The local agency responsible for investigating traffic fatalities and criminal hit-and-run cases in Durham.
CrimeStoppers
An organization that partners with law enforcement to solicit anonymous tips from the public through financial incentives.
The details
The incident occurred when Poojari exited his vehicle to address a flat tire on the side of the freeway. The suspect driver struck him and immediately fled the scene, leaving the victim to die.
Timeline
October 18, 2026: The fatal hit-and-run crash occurred at 10:05 p.m.
October 28, 2026: Police publicly announced the identification of the Nissan vehicle make.
Legal Context
This incident follows the investigative pattern required by state law for handling fatal hit-and-run cases. Recent legislative focus in North Carolina has centered on strengthening penalties for drivers who flee the scene of a crash resulting in death.
Residents who travel along N.C. 147 or near Fayetteville Street are urged to report any sightings of a damaged Nissan sedan or small SUV. Witnesses with information are encouraged to call the investigator at 919-560-4935 x29450 or CrimeStoppers at (919) 683-1200.
The takeaway
This case serves as a somber reminder of the dangers posed to motorists who exit their vehicles on high-speed freeways. Drivers should remain inside their vehicles and call for professional roadside assistance whenever possible during a mechanical failure.
Further reading
For more information on road safety and local traffic investigations, visit the Durham Accidents section.
