Onslow County deputies release suspect description in DoorDash driver assault investigation
JACKSONVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Investigators have released new details about the alleged assault of a DoorDash driver in Jacksonville, including a description of the suspect and vehicle involved.
The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office said detectives continue to investigate the August 1 assault of Christen Phillips, who was attacked while making a food delivery.
According to investigators, the incident began around 1:19 a.m. when Phillips was stopped at the intersection of Western Boulevard and Gum Branch Road. The sheriff’s office said a vehicle in front of her did not move after the light turned green, and Phillips briefly honked before the vehicle moved and began following her.
Deputies said Phillips arrived at a delivery location in the Shamrock Drive area and attempted to return to her vehicle when the suspect approached her and struck her in the head with a baseball bat before fleeing.
Phillips was able to drive herself to Onslow Memorial Hospital, where deputies were notified and began investigating.
The sheriff’s office said detectives have now determined the suspect was driving a dark-colored Range Rover with silver or gray alloy rims.
Investigators described the suspect as a light-skinned Black or Hispanic male, approximately 6 feet tall, with short hair and a clean-shaven appearance. The suspect is believed to be in his late 30s to early 40s.
The sheriff’s office also said a person previously believed to be involved in the assault has been ruled out as a suspect following additional investigation.
Phillips remains hospitalized at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center as she continues recovering from serious injuries, including skull fractures. She previously said she may need additional facial and brain surgeries as part of her recovery.
The investigation remains active. Anyone with information about the incident, suspicious activity between Western Boulevard/Gum Branch Road and Richlands, or any video or evidence that could assist investigators is asked to contact the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office.
Tips can also be submitted through the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office app or the NC Evidence Submission Portal. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that assists law enforcement.
