Man police say hit and killed two bicyclists now charged with second degree murder

WILMINGTON, NC (NEWS RELEASE) – Earlier today, a New Hanover County Grand Jury indicted Thomas Howard Grooms, Jr. of two counts of Second Degree Murder in the April 3, 2011 deaths of Ronald David Doolittle II and Ronald David Doolittle III.

Grooms was also indicted for two counts of Felony Death by Motor Vehicle, Felony Possession of Cocaine, Possession of an Open Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Reckless Driving to Endanger, and Driving While Impaired.

Trooper Brian Phillips presented evidence to the Grand Jury.

The State Highway Patrol serves as the lead investigatory agency on this incident.

Mr. Grooms remains in the custody of the New Hanover County Sheriff under a $500,000 bond.

Because this case is pending, neither the Highway Patrol nor the Office of the District Attorney will make any further comment at this time.