Twin brothers have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a cyclist in Asheville. According to Buncombe County District Attorney Todd Williams, 28-year-old James Shearon was riding his bike on March 1 when he was struck by a car that fled the scene. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Shearon tragically succumbed to his injuries on March 8.
The Asheville Police Department reviewed security footage, leading them to identify 22-year-old Calvin Dion as the driver of the vehicle that hit Shearon. Calvin later confessed to driving the Honda and leaving the scene of the crash. Meanwhile, his twin brother, Allen Blayze Dion, was in the vicinity and advised Calvin via Facebook Messenger not to return to the scene due to the presence of law enforcement.
During court proceedings on December 7, Calvin pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and felony hit and run inflicting serious injury or death. As a result, he was sentenced to serve 108-142 months in prison. In a separate hearing, Allen pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to felony hit and run inflicting serious injury or death and received a sentence of 10-21 months in prison.
District Attorney Williams stated that James Shearon’s family was notified about the plea agreement, attended the court session, and shared their heart-wrenching grief. They expressed their deep love for James and emphasized that even if the death penalty had been an option, it could not alleviate their immeasurable loss.
The news of the twin brothers’ sentencing serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of hit-and-run incidents. Such incidents not only claim lives but also leave families shattered and communities grieving. The accountability and punishment imposed on the Dion brothers highlight the seriousness with which the justice system treats such crimes.
Moving forward, it is crucial for everyone on the roads to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic laws. Respecting the rights of cyclists and pedestrians is essential, as is taking responsibility for one’s actions in the event of an accident.
Although nothing can bring James Shearon back, his family’s strength and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy are a testament to the power of love and unity. It is hoped that this case will bring awareness to the need for safer roads and encourage individuals to think twice before fleeing the scene of an accident.
The sentencing of the Dion brothers serves as a reminder that the pursuit of justice continues, even long after the headlines fade away. As the community mourns the loss of James Shearon, it is crucial to honor his memory by working towards a future where tragic incidents like this become a thing of the past.
