Driver wanted after hitting man, Gastonia police say

Gastonia police are looking for a driver who crashed into a man Thursday night.

The driver of a small SUV hit Joseph Guthrie at about 11:30 p.m. on Bessemer City Road, police said.

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Guthrie suffered serious injuries. His family said he’s now fighting for his life in the hospital. He has several broken bones and has been on a ventilator.

“He deserves to live. He deserves the opportunity at life again,” said his friend Tina Burchfield.

The SUV should have front-end damage from the collision. Police said it slowed down after the crash and then drove off.

Call Crime Stoppers at 704-861-8000. There is a reward that leads to an arrest.

Friends said the driver needs to turn themselves into police. They said they are not angry at the driver, they just want justice.

Editor’s note: The Gastonia Police Department originally stated the pedestrian was killed. This article has been updated.