In the quiet community of Lincoln County, North Carolina, a heartbreaking tragedy struck on the evening of April 29, 2025, leaving a family and an entire town in mourning. Brandon Scott Carpenter, a 35-year-old sanitation worker, husband, and father of three, lost his life while diligently performing his duties on the back of a garbage truck.
Known for his unwavering devotion to his family, Brandon’s untimely death has sent ripples of grief through those who knew him and beyond. This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by essential workers who keep our communities running, often in the face of unseen dangers.
A Devoted Family Man Brandon Carpenter was more than just a worker; he was the heartbeat of his family, a loving husband, and a doting father to his three children.
Described by those close to him as a man of warmth and commitment, he poured his heart into providing for his loved ones. In the wake of his passing, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support his grieving family with funeral expenses and daily living costs.
By the morning of April 30, the fundraiser had already garnered over $600, a testament to the community’s desire to rally around the Carpenters during this unimaginable loss. The outpouring of support reflects the profound impact Brandon had on those around him.Details of the Tragic Incident
The accident occurred around 7:40 p.m. on North Carolina Highway 27 near the intersection with Highway 150 in Lincolnton. According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a 2014 Mack garbage truck was stationary in the travel lane as Brandon and his colleagues carried out their routine sanitation tasks.
A 2011 Toyota Camry, driven by 35-year-old Danica Lashea Borders of Lincolnton, approached the scene but failed to slow down sufficiently, striking Brandon as he worked at the rear of the truck. Despite the swift response of paramedics, who rushed him to a nearby hospital, Brandon succumbed to his injuries.
No other workers were harmed, and authorities have stated that impairment does not appear to have been a factor in the crash.Legal Consequences and Community Response Following the collision, Danica Borders was charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and failure to reduce speed, as reported by troopers.
The incident prompted a temporary closure of the roadway for approximately two hours while investigators examined the scene.
The tragedy has sparked conversations about road safety, particularly for workers in high-risk roles like sanitation, who often operate in close proximity to moving traffic.
Community members have expressed their sorrow and solidarity, with many contributing to the GoFundMe and sharing messages of condolence, honoring Brandon’s memory as a dedicated worker and cherished family man.A Call for Awareness and Support
Brandon Carpenter’s death is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of vigilance on the roads, especially around service vehicles. As Lincoln County grieves, the focus remains on supporting his family through this profound loss.
The GoFundMe continues to accept donations, offering a way for people near and far to help ease the financial burden on Brandon’s loved ones.
His legacy as a devoted husband, father, and community member endures, inspiring those who knew him to cherish their loved ones and advocate for safer working conditions for those who serve our communities every day.