GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — A community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Ashley Moore, a 37-year-old paramedic and field training officer with Cleveland County Emergency Medical Services, after she was killed in a devastating ambulance crash early Monday morning in Gaston County. Authorities say speed and alcohol likely contributed to the collision, and the driver accused of causing the crash has been arrested and faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder.
The tragic crash happened shortly after 8 a.m. on Highway 74 near Shady Grove Road. According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a Cleveland County ambulance was attempting to make a U-turn when it was struck from behind by a Dodge Challenger driven by 35-year-old Jared Logan.
Investigators said Logan was traveling at a high rate of speed and rear-ended the ambulance, causing it to overturn and come to rest on its side. At the time of the crash, Ashley Moore was inside the ambulance caring for a patient. Troopers said she was ejected during the collision and died from her injuries.
The crash has left fellow first responders, community members, and Ashley’s loved ones devastated as they remember a woman who dedicated nearly a decade of her life to serving others.
The driver of the Dodge Challenger, Jared Logan, was transported to CaroMont Health with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. He was later arrested and charged with second-degree murder, driving while impaired (DWI), reckless driving, and failure to wear a seatbelt. Authorities said he remains in custody without bond.
Officials confirmed that the ambulance driver and the patient who was being transported were both reported to be safe following the crash.
For many in Cleveland County, the loss of Ashley Moore feels deeply personal. She served with Cleveland County EMS for nine years, earning the respect of her colleagues through her dedication, professionalism, and compassion for those in need. As a paramedic and field training officer, she helped save lives while also guiding and teaching other emergency medical professionals.
Neighbors and community members described the crash scene as shocking and difficult to comprehend.
“It was a horrible thing,” said neighbor Johnny Burnett, who was awakened by the sound of the collision.
“It was like a horrifying bang, and you hear brakes and metal hit, and it just scares you,” Burnett recalled.
The news of Ashley’s death sent grief throughout the first responder community. Summer Blanton, who lives near Cleveland County EMS Station No. 4 and knew Ashley’s family, expressed her heartbreak over the tragedy.
“Can’t believe it,” Blanton said. “It’s always tragic when something like this happens within our first responder community. We’re just praying for the family to comfort them in this time.”
Cleveland County officials released a statement mourning the loss of one of their own and offering support to Ashley’s family, friends, and fellow emergency responders.
“Our entire Cleveland County team is grieving the loss of one of our own,” said Thomas McNeilly, Cleveland County Emergency Medical Services Director.
“Our immediate priority is supporting Ashley’s family and our first responders during this tragedy,” said David B. Cotton, Cleveland County Manager.
Ashley Moore’s death is a painful reminder of the risks first responders face every day while answering calls for help. She dedicated her life to caring for others, stepping into dangerous situations to provide comfort, medical care, and hope to people during their most vulnerable moments.
Her impact will be remembered by the patients she helped, the colleagues she trained, and the community she proudly served.
As Cleveland County mourns, many are keeping Ashley’s family, friends, and fellow EMS workers in their thoughts and prayers.
Rest in peace, Ashley Moore. Your service, sacrifice, and dedication will never be forgotten. You will always be remembered as a hero who gave everything to help others.
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