Press release from Asheville Police Department:
Note: This press release was updated on July 15 to reflect that Rachel Dawn Ruit died on July 14.
At approximately 1:30 p.m. on July 13 the Asheville Police Department responded to the 800 block of Patton Avenue after receiving reports of a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian and an Asheville Fire Department vehicle. Upon arrival officers located a female victim, identified as Rachel Dawn Ruit, in critical condition. Ruit was transported to Mission Hospital. On the afternoon of July 14, Ruit passed away as a result of her injuries.
The incident is under further investigation by the Asheville Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit.
If anyone has any information they are encouraged to contact the Asheville Police Department at (828) 252-1110 or Asheville-Buncombe Crime Stoppers at (828) 255-5050, if they wish to remain anonymous.
Announcement from the Asheville Fire Department:
Asheville, NC (July 15, 2020): The City of Asheville would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family of Rachel Dawn Ruit who died from injuries she sustained as a pedestrian struck July 13 by an Asheville Fire Department vehicle.
“This is a tragedy for all involved”, says City Manager Debra Campbell. “Chief Burnette and I reached out to Ms. Ruit’s family to share our deepest sympathies. We also extend our condolences for all those who knew her.”
Chief Scott Burnette adds, “The fire department, especially our firefighter who was involved in this incident, is deeply saddened by this event. We are fully cooperating with the police department’s investigation and hope Ms. Ruit’s family and friends can find some solace knowing we care during this difficult time.”
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