Local News

In-Line Skating Accident

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FAYETTEVILLE — A 7-year-old Cumberland County boy isin critical, but stable, condition after skating into the path of anoncoming pickup truck.

Randy Shaffer, the driver of the truck, says Jeffrey Weir was wearingin-line skates and was in a crouching position when he appeared in frontof the truck. The driver says he slammed on brakes, but it was too late toavoid hitting the boy.

State Trooper Tracy Coleman said the accident happened around dusk onWhitehall Drive in the Cottonade subdivision.

The boy was dragged about 10 feet before the truck was able to stop.Paramedics had to carefully remove the child from under the truck.

Terry Briggs, who lives nearby, said it was a frightening occurrencebecause it could happen to anyone's child.

Authorities say Jeffrey Weir was not wearing a helmet or otherprotective gear, and that it probably would have helped in this situation.He suffered severe head injuries, and is in serious condition.

Shaffer says he will always be haunted by the accident.

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