A man has been arrested in connection with the tragic death of 32-year-old Ashley Gearhart, who was struck and killed by a vehicle outside an Applebee’s restaurant in Salem on Saturday night.
Authorities have identified the suspect as 30-year-old Jeremy Williams, the father of Gearhart's child.
Police records and eyewitness accounts have revealed that the fatal incident unfolded around 8:30 p.m. on the evening of January 6, 2025.
Gearhart and Williams were inside the Applebee’s restaurant before the altercation began.
According to police, Williams attempted to leave the dinner, and Gearhart followed him outside, where the situation escalated.
Witnesses report that Williams first stood behind Gearhart’s vehicle before moving to the front. It is at this point that Gearhart allegedly attempted to stop Williams, raising her hands in an effort to halt him.
According to court records, Williams then allegedly tried to drive off, bumping Gearhart with his vehicle, striking her with enough force to cause fatal injuries.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene to find Gearhart suffering from life-threatening injuries. Despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Williams then drove to a nearby KFC parking lot and called 911, but he did not attempt to flee.
Authorities apprehended him shortly afterward. He was charged with second-degree murder and is being held without bond at the Salem-Roanoke County Jail. Williams is scheduled to appear in court on February 2, 2025.
The community has been left devastated by the loss of Gearhart, who was described as a loving and caring mother.
Tributes have flooded social media, with friends and family expressing their disbelief at the violent turn of events.
Many have shared memories of Gearhart’s kindness and dedication to her children.
In response to the tragedy, Gearhart’s family has set up a GoFundMe page to help support her children.
The family is also holding a funeral service for Ashley on January 6, 2025, at Valley Funeral Home from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing as Salem authorities continue to gather evidence and speak with witnesses.
This case has shocked the Salem community, leaving many questioning how such a senseless tragedy could occur.
For now, the focus remains on honoring Gearhart’s memory and providing support for her grieving family.
The investigation into the events leading up to Ashley Gearhart's death is ongoing, and Salem police are continuing to seek more information from the public.
Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact local authorities.