Knightdale police responded early Friday morning to a report that a car had driven into the side entrance of Grow Pediatric Dentistry, located next to the Kohl’s store on Hinton Oaks Boulevard. The incident occurred around 8 a.m., and first responders found the vehicle lodged against the building.
Emergency response and investigation
Police and fire crews arrived promptly, securing the scene and ensuring the safety of nearby pedestrians. Tow crews were called in to extract the car, which remained wedged in the building for several minutes before being pulled free. The crash caused noticeable damage to the office’s exterior but, according to the owner’s wife, no one was inside the practice at the time.
Impact on the dental office
Grow Pediatric Dentistry, a local provider of dental care for children, was temporarily closed while the damage was assessed. The office’s staff indicated that appointments scheduled for later in the day would be rescheduled, and families were advised to contact the practice for updates. The clinic’s management expressed gratitude for the quick response of emergency personnel and emphasized that the safety of patients and staff remains their top priority.
Police statement
Knightdale police have opened an investigation into the cause of the crash. At this time, officials have not released details about whether the driver was under the influence, experienced a medical emergency, or was otherwise impaired. The department is reviewing dash‑camera footage and speaking with potential witnesses to determine what led to the vehicle striking the building.
Community reaction
Neighbors expressed concern over the incident, noting that the area sees a steady flow of traffic due to its proximity to major retail stores. Residents urged the city to consider additional traffic safety measures, such as improved signage or speed‑reduction strategies, to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Next steps
The investigation remains ongoing, and police have asked anyone with additional information or video of the crash to contact the Knightdale Police Department. Grow Pediatric Dentistry plans to reopen once repairs are completed and will keep families informed through its website and phone lines.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.