Durham Police Arrest Suspect in 2024 Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash

Damien Holloway charged with felony hit-and-run and driving with revoked license in death of bicyclist Frederick Howell.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Nearly two years after a hit-and-run crash that left 53-year-old Frederick Howell dead, the Durham Police Department has arrested 46-year-old Damien Holloway and charged him with felony hit-and-run resulting in death and driving while license under impaired revocation. The crash occurred on May 27, 2024, when Howell was struck from behind while riding his bicycle just minutes from his home.

Why it matters

This arrest provides some closure for Howell's family and the Durham community, who were devastated by the loss of a well-known and beloved local resident. The case also highlights ongoing challenges around traffic safety, hit-and-run incidents, and enforcement of driving restrictions for those with revoked licenses.

The details

According to police, Holloway was taken into custody on February 12, 2026, nearly two years after the fatal crash. Authorities say speed appeared to be a factor in the incident that killed Howell, who was struck from behind while riding his bicycle on Ellis Road.

  • The crash occurred on May 27, 2024, around 9:50 p.m.
  • Holloway was arrested on February 12, 2026.

The players

Damien Holloway

A 46-year-old Durham resident who has been charged with felony hit-and-run resulting in death and driving while license under impaired revocation.

Frederick Howell

A 53-year-old bicyclist who was killed in the 2024 hit-and-run crash, known by his nickname "Fruity".

Alexia Powell

Howell's daughter, who expressed grief over her father's death in 2024.

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What they’re saying

“When he was born, he was so fat. My cousin say he looked like a peach, so they called him Fruity.”

— Frederick Howell (ABC11)

“He will be missed a lot, from friends and family. I know that. He didn't get hit that far from the house. I could have picked him up. My uncle could have picked him up.”

— Alexia Powell, Howell's daughter (ABC11)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Damien Holloway to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for improved traffic safety measures, stronger enforcement of driving restrictions, and support for victims' families in hit-and-run incidents. The Durham community's loss of a beloved local resident highlights the human toll of such senseless acts.