Asheville -- January 23, 2026: A pedestrian fatality on Smokey Park Highway has prompted discussions about pedestrian safety in high-traffic area in Asheville.
On Thursday, January 22, 2026, at approximately 8:45 p.m., Eric Jonathan Cope was struck and killed by a truck on Smokey Park Highway. The incident occurred outside of a designated crosswalk, according to initial reports.
Authorities are investigating the incident. Police are seeking witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not released further details. Specific information regarding the truck driver's identity or potential charges has not been disclosed in available reports.
The focus remains on understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident and determining factors that contributed to the pedestrian fatality.
As the investigation continues, the community is reminded to exercise caution while traveling as a pedestrian or driver. Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the authorities by texting TIP2APD to 847411 or by using the TIP2APD smartphone app.
WNCTimes