GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — The Cleveland County community is mourning the tragic loss of Ashley Moore, a 37-year-old Paramedic and Field Training Officer with Cleveland County Emergency Medical Services, who was killed in the line of duty after an ambulance crash in Gaston County on Monday morning. Authorities say the crash was caused by Jared Logan, 35, who has since been arrested and charged with second-degree murder, along with several other offenses. Cleveland County EMS Director Thomas McNeilly, County Manager David B. Cotton, neighbors Johnny Burnett and Summer Blanton, and countless first responders are among those grieving the heartbreaking loss of a dedicated public servant who spent nine years serving her community.
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 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.
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 being transported both survived the crash.
Ashley Moore served with Cleveland County EMS for nine years, earning the admiration of coworkers through her professionalism, compassion, and commitment to emergency medical care. As both a paramedic and field training officer, she not only saved lives but also mentored and trained future EMS professionals.
Neighbor Johnny Burnett, who was awakened by the crash, described the terrifying moments.
“It was a horrible thing. It was like a horrifying bang, and you hear brakes and metal hit, and it just scares you.”
Summer Blanton, who lives near Cleveland County EMS Station No. 4 and knows Ashley’s family, shared her condolences.
“Can’t believe it. 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 also expressed their grief.
“Our entire Cleveland County team is grieving the loss of one of our own,” said Thomas McNeilly, Director of Cleveland County EMS.
“Our immediate priority is supporting Ashley’s family and our first responders during this tragedy,” added David B. Cotton, Cleveland County Manager.
Ashley Moore’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers first responders face while serving their communities. Every shift, EMS professionals put their own lives at risk to save others, and Ashley’s dedication exemplified the very best of that calling.
She leaves behind a lasting legacy of compassion, courage, and selfless service. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless people whose lives she touched throughout her career.
Rest in peace, Ashley Moore. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten, and your legacy of service will continue to inspire generations of first responders.
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