Local News
Selma Fire Captain Aeneas Pettway, 58, Dies in the Line of Duty After Medical Emergency While on Duty
SELMA, Ala. — The Selma Fire/Rescue Department is mourning the loss of Captain Aeneas Pettway, 58, a dedicated firefighter who died in the line of duty on Friday, November 6, 2026, following a medical emergency while serving on duty.
Pettway devoted 27 years of his life to protecting the people of Selma, building a legacy of commitment, professionalism, and service to his community. His sudden passing has left his family, fellow firefighters, friends, and colleagues grieving the loss of a respected public servant.
For nearly three decades, Captain Pettway answered the call to serve, helping protect residents and supporting the work of the Selma Fire/Rescue Department. Throughout his 27 years with the department, he demonstrated a lasting commitment to public safety and the people who depended on emergency responders during difficult moments.
At the time of his death, Pettway served as the department’s Fire Investigator and Fire Inspector, roles that reflected his experience and dedication to protecting the community.
To many who knew him, however, he was more than a captain or experienced firefighter. He was affectionately known as “Capt. P,” a name remembered with warmth by those who worked alongside him.
The department described Pettway as someone who brought enthusiasm, compassion, and a positive attitude to his work. Whether responding to an emergency or offering support to fellow firefighters, he was known for being willing to help and encourage others.
In its tribute, the Selma Fire/Rescue Department remembered him with these words:
“Whether answering a call for help or stepping up to support fellow firefighters, he was always eager to lend a hand and lead with a smile.”
His colleagues remembered a firefighter who took pride in his profession, valued teamwork, and consistently demonstrated care for the people around him.
The department also recognized the remarkable length of his service, stating that Captain Pettway had dedicated 27 years of selfless service to the department and the Selma community.
Those years represented more than time spent in a profession. They reflected a commitment to public safety, a willingness to serve during challenging circumstances, and a deep connection to the community he worked to protect.
His death is a significant loss for the Selma Fire/Rescue Department and the wider community. Fellow firefighters are now facing the difficult task of saying goodbye to a colleague whose dedication and friendly presence made a lasting impression.
As the department and community mourn Captain Pettway, funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
The Selma Fire/Rescue Department is asking the public to keep his family, friends, and fellow firefighters in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this sudden loss.
Our deepest condolences go out to everyone who knew and loved Captain Aeneas Pettway. May his 27 years of service, his kindness, and the positive example he set continue to be remembered.
Rest in peace, Captain P. Your dedication to Selma and your fellow firefighters will never be forgotten.
Local News
Donald Robert Morris-Jones Charged in Fatal Wake County Cycling Crash That Killed One and Injured Seven; Bond Set at $1 Million
WAKE COUNTY, N.C. — A devastating collision involving a group of cyclists in Wake County, North Carolina, left one person dead and seven others injured. A 76-year-old Apex man, identified as Donald Robert Morris-Jones, has been arrested and faces multiple felony charges in connection with the crash.
According to the information provided in court records, Morris-Jones was arrested on November 7, 2026, following an investigation by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Authorities allege that he struck multiple cyclists and failed to remain at the scene after the collision.
The incident has deeply affected the cycling community, with one family mourning the loss of a loved one and seven other victims facing injuries and recovery.
Morris-Jones faces a series of charges across two related cases. The charges listed in the supplied court information include:
- One count of felony death by vehicle.
- Seven counts of felony serious injury by vehicle.
- Eight counts of felony hit-and-run involving serious injury or death.
- Driving while impaired.
- Reckless driving with wanton disregard.
- Driving left of center.
The eight hit-and-run counts allege that Morris-Jones failed to stop following the collision, which resulted in one death and injuries to seven other people.
These are allegations contained in the criminal charges. Morris-Jones is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
One charging document alleges that Morris-Jones was driving on State Road 1390 while under the influence of an impairing substance, resulting in serious injuries to another person.
The document describes injuries that reportedly included damage to the person’s leg and ribs, as well as a laceration to the left arm.
A driving-while-impaired record indicates that a blood test was ordered. However, the results had not been released in the information provided, and no conclusion about the test results can be drawn at this stage.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.
A judicial official set secured bonds totaling $1 million across the two cases.
The bond amounts were listed as:
- $750,000 in one case.
- $250,000 in the related case.
According to the supplied court documents, the judicial official cited the combined offenses and described an “overwhelming danger to society.” The official also noted that Morris-Jones appeared to have no significant criminal history while expressing concern that he had allegedly attempted to flee to avoid prosecution.
The bond decision reflects the court’s assessment at this stage of the proceedings and does not establish guilt.
Morris-Jones is scheduled to appear in Wake County District Court on November 9, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The hearing is listed for Courtroom 304.
Further proceedings are expected to address the charges as the case moves through the judicial process. Additional information about the crash, the victims, and the investigation may be released as it becomes available.
Beyond the criminal charges and court proceedings, the crash has left families and an entire cycling community facing a painful loss.
One person will not return home, while seven others have reportedly suffered serious injuries. Their loved ones must now navigate the uncertainty, emotional strain, and challenges that follow a sudden and traumatic event.
For the cyclists involved, what began as a morning ride ended in tragedy. Friends, relatives, and fellow riders are left remembering the person who died while hoping for recovery and healing for those who survived.
Our thoughts are with the family of the person who lost their life, the seven injured cyclists, and everyone affected by this devastating collision.
May the person who died be remembered with love and dignity, and may the injured victims find strength and healing in the days ahead.