Burgaw finance officer on leave without pay following DWI and hit and run charges

BURGAW, NC (WWAY) — The Town of Burgaw finance officer is facing DWI charges after an alleged hit and run.

According to the Pender County Sheriff’s Office, Hans Kalwitz, 42, was arrested on Monday. He was charged with DWI, Hit and Run, and failure to report an accident. Kalwitz has a secured bond of $1500.

The NC Highway Patrol says it happened just before Noon on Monday on Center Drive near Thornton Drive in Hampstead. A 14-year-old was riding a bike on Center Drive when it was struck by a Tesla.

Troopers were able to identify Kalwitz as a suspect.

The Tesla was found at his home not far from the scene of the accident.

The Highway Patrol says the investigation is still ongoing. The teenager was not injured.

Kalwitz was announced as the new finance officer for the Town of Burgaw in late January.

The Town of Burgaw released the following statement.

“The Town of Burgaw has been made aware of the recent arrest of one of its employees, Hans Kalwitz, on serious traffic-related charges. This incident occurred outside of town limits and while the employee was off duty. The investigation and subsequent arrest were conducted by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

Mr. Kalwitz began his employment with the Town of Burgaw as Finance Officer on February 10, 2025. Following this incident, he has been placed on administrative leave without pay pending the outcome of the Town’s internal investigation.

As this is a personnel matter and involves an ongoing legal process, the Town will not be providing further comment at this time.”