Bladenboro mayor David Hales releases statement regarding citation
BLADENBORO, NC (WWAY) — On Saturday, Bladenboro Mayor David Hales Jr. was cited by NC Highway State Patrol for having an open container of alcohol in the vehicle.
Hales released a statement and details regarding the incident.
In the statement, it says, “ Mayor Hales was involved in a single-vehicle accident on his way to delivering dinner to the Annual Bladenboro Fire Department Appreciation Dinner. Mayor Hales had to take evasive action to avoid an oncoming vehicle that had crossed into his lane, creating an imminent risk of a head-on collision. In attempting to avoid the other vehicle, Mayor Hales left the roadway and entered a ditch.”
The statement from an attorney goes on to say that Hales contacted authorities by radio to report the accident. No other vehicles were involved, and no serious injuries were reported.
Hales was cited for an open container violation and expired registration.
Comments from the charging officer say, “Subject had been drinking. Strong odor of alcohol within vehicle and multiple opened cans of Busch Light in floorboard.”
“Public safety has always been my top priority—both as mayor and as a citizen,” said Mayor Hales. “I appreciate the quick response of emergency personnel and I am grateful that I was not seriously injured. I respect the legal process and will cooperate fully.”
Hales will continue his duties as mayor of Bladenboro.
Here is the full statement from the attorney:
“Bladenboro Mayor David Hales is providing the following statement regarding a traffic incident that occurred on January 17, 2026 in Bladenboro, N.C. near the intersection of Highway 131 and Sunset Park Road. On the evening of January 17, 2026, Mayor Hales was involved in a single-vehicle accident on his way to delivering dinner to the Annual Bladenboro Fire Department Appreciation Dinner. Mayor Hales had to take evasive action to avoid an oncoming vehicle that had crossed into his lane, creating an imminent risk of a head-on collision. In attempting to avoid the other vehicle, Mayor Hales left the roadway and entered a ditch. Being a life-long volunteer firefighter, Mayor Hales immediately contacted the appropriate authorities by radio to report the accident and request assistance. No other vehicles were involved, and no serious injuries were reported by Mayor Hales. Responding officers conducted their standard procedures at the scene. As a result, Mayor Hales was cited for an open container violation and expired registration. This matter is currently pending, and Mayor Hales will address it through the appropriate legal process. “Public safety has always been my top priority—both as mayor and as a citizen,” said Mayor Hales. “I appreciate the quick response of emergency personnel and I am grateful that I was not seriously injured. I respect the legal process and will cooperate fully. Mayor Hales remains committed to serving the residents of Bladenboro and will continue carrying out the duties of the office. No further comment will be made at this time.”
