James Robert Bagley III Killed in Fatal Hit-and-Run; Sylva Police Seek Public’s Help to Identify Driver

The Sylva Police Department is actively investigating a tragic fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of James Robert Bagley III during the early morning hours of Sunday, August 2, 2026, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to identify the driver responsi

According to investigators, the collision was reported at approximately 2:46 a.m. on US 23 Business near 74 Sylva Plaza in Sylva, North Carolina. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following reports of a vehicle striking a pedestrian.

When police officers and first responders arrived, they discovered an adult male lying in the roadway suffering from catastrophic injuries. He was later identified as James Robert Bagley III. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, Mr. Bagley was pronounced dead at the scene as a result of the injuries he sustained in the collision.

Authorities say the vehicle involved in the crash did not stop to render aid or notify emergency services. Instead, the driver fled the scene, leaving investigators with the difficult task of identifying both the vehicle and the person behind the wheel.

The Sylva Police Department immediately launched a felony hit-and-run investigation with assistance from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, whose expertise in collision reconstruction is expected to play a key role in determining exactly what occurred

Investigators are also reviewing evidence from nearby businesses and have reached out to establishments in the area to obtain surveillance footage that may have captured the moments leading up to or following the deadly collision. Detectives believe video evidence, along with information from the public, could prove vital in identifying the suspect vehicle.

Police are encouraging anyone who may have been traveling along US 23 Business around the time of the crash, or anyone who may have seen a vehicle with possible damage consistent with striking a pedestrian, to contact investigators immediately. Even the smallest piece of information could help move the investigation forward

Sylva Police Chief Aimee Sumner issued a heartfelt appeal to the community, emphasizing the importance of public coopera

> “We are asking for the public’s help in locating the person responsible for this crash. Someone knows something. If you have any information at all, no matter how small it may seem, please come forward and help us bring justice to Mr. Bagley’s family.”

The tragic incident has left family members, friends, and members of the Sylva community mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of James Robert Bagley III while investigators continue searching for answers.

The Sylva Police Department also expressed its appreciation to the agencies that responded and assisted at the scene, including the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Sylva Fire Department, and WestCare EMS.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities are asking anyone with information regarding the crash or the vehicle involved to contact the Sylva Police Department at (828) 586-2916 or Jackson County Communications at (828) 586-1911. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through the Sylva Police Department’s online tip system.

As investigators continue working to identify the driver responsible, officials hope community members will come forward with any information that may help bring accountability and provide long-awaited answers and justice for the family of James Robert Bagley III.