Wilmington, NC Police Department

09/02/2026

Labor Day is almost here! 🎉

No matter what your plans are for the long weekend, SAFE driving must be at the top of your checklist. ⤵️

09/02/2026

Calling all middle & high school students!

It’s almost National Forensic Science Week, and this year our CSI Unit is hosting a Clue-themed event. RSVP now at the email below as space is limited! 🔎

09/02/2026

News Release
Wilmington Police Department
Wednesday, September 2, 2026

MAN PASSES AWAY AFTER BEING STRUCK BY A VEHICLE

The Wilmington Police Department is investigating a fatal vehicle-pedestrian collision that occurred on August 19, 2026, shortly before midnight at the intersection of North Kerr Avenue and Market Street.

Patrol officers responded to the intersection just before midnight for a report of a vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision involving Clifford Smith, who was attempting to cross N. Kerr Avenue from east to west. The investigation determined that Smith entered the roadway without activating the pedestrian crosswalk signal. At the same time, a green left-turn arrow activated, allowing vehicles traveling from Market Street to turn left onto N. Kerr Avenue. Smith was struck by a vehicle while crossing the roadway.

On August 30, 2026, the Wilmington Police Department was notified by the Medical Examiner's Office that Mr. Smith had succumbed to the injuries he sustained in the collision. Following an extensive investigation by the WPD Traffic Unit, it has been determined that the driver involved will not face charges. We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Smith’s family during this difficult time.

# # #

09/02/2026

News Release
Wilmington Police Department
Wednesday, September 2, 2026

WPD INVESTIGATING FATAL TWO-VEHICLE COLLISION

The Wilmington Police Department is continuing to investigate a two-vehicle collision that occurred on Tuesday, June 16, just before 11:15 p.m. at the intersection of Military Cutoff Road and Station Road.

Officers responded to the area after receiving a report of a serious motor vehicle collision involving a Lexus and a Chevrolet Colorado. The investigation determined that the Lexus, operated by Marina Smyrnow, was attempting to turn left when her vehicle was struck by a Chevrolet Colorado traveling westbound on Military Cutoff Road. The collision caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in serious injuries. Smyrnow later succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Toxicology results remain pending to determine if impairment was a factor for both drivers.

The 15-year-old juvenile has been charged with:

-Misdemeanor Death by Motor Vehicle

-Careless and Reckless Operation Resulting in Serious Injury

-Speeding (79 mph in a 45 mph zone)

-No Operator's License

The juvenile driver's parents were also charged with:

-Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor

-Allowing an Unlicensed Driver to Operate a Motor Vehicle

The Wilmington Police Department extends our condolences to the family and loved ones of Ms. Smyrnow.

# # #

09/02/2026

https://www.wect.com/2026/09/01/wilmington-police-detail-rescue-man-who-jumped-isabel-holmes-bridge/

A man was rescued from the Cape Fear River Sunday night after jumping from the Isabel Holmes Bridge. The Wilmington Police Department says negotiation and dialogue played a role in the rescue.

09/01/2026

🎥 Behind the Rescue

The WPD, working alongside WFD, recently helped rescue a man from the Cape Fear River. And today, one of our officers from the Crisis Negotiation Team talked with WECT News about what happened and how their unit works to help citizens who may be experiencing a crisis.

09/01/2026

MISSING:

09/01/2026

This is what it's all about. Helping our incredible community one day at a time. 💙

09/01/2026

Keep our kids safe — slow down ⬇️ and look around 👁️ at bus stops and in school zones!

09/01/2026

MISSING PERSON