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Cyclist hit, killed by suspected drunk driver in Lenoir, police say

The crash happened a little before 2:30 a.m. Sunday morning in Lenoir.

LENOIR, N.C. — A cyclist was hit and killed by a suspected drunk driver in Lenoir early Sunday morning, police said. 

Lenoir police responded to a crash on Hickory Boulevard, near Ideal Drive, a little before 2:30 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10. When officers got to the scene, they learned a cyclist, identified as 36-year-old Nathan Smith, was hit from behind by the driver of a Hyundai Tucson. He died at the scene, according to police. 

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The driver of the Hyundai, 27-year-old Christopher Murillo, of Gastonia, was given a field sobriety test when officers suspected he may be impaired by alcohol. Murillo was arrested at the scene and charged with felony death by vehicle and DWI. He was given a $50,000 bond on the death by vehicle charge. 

Anyone with information about this crash is asked to call Lenoir/Caldwell County Crime Stoppers at 828-758-8300. All calls to Crime Stoppers are anonymous. 

Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.  

WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings. 

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