NC man dies after being hit by police cruiser during officer's first patrol alone

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Officials say a Fayetteville police officer was on the way to a domestic violence incident when he hit and killed a pedestrian.

Officer Ashton Lambert hit Gregory Graham after he stepped into the path of the officer's cruiser on Tuesday evening, according to investigators.

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Police said it was Lambert’s first night alone on patrol.

"City patrol, I just hit a pedestrian. I just hit a pedestrian. I need another unit,” said Lambert as he called for backup.

Police said Graham was wearing dark clothing and there were no lights on the street.

Lambert gave Graham first aid until EMS arrived, but he died at the scene.

According to the preliminary investigation, Lambert was traveling 5 to 8 mph over the posted speed limit at the time of the crash.

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