Burgaw Finance Officer Arrested for DUI Hit-and-Run
The quiet town of Burgaw, North Carolina, has been rocked by stunning news as Hans Kalwitz, the town’s finance officer, finds himself at the center of a serious legal predicament. Kalwitz was arrested on Monday, April 21, in connection with a hit-and-run incident, thrusting him into an unexpected spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
Arrest and Charges
The Pender County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Kalwitz faces multiple charges, including Driving While Impaired (DWI), Hit-and-Run, and Failure to Report an Accident. His arrest, which took place earlier this week, comes after a dramatic sequence of events that unfolded in nearby Hampstead.
The Incident
According to reports from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the episode began with Kalwitz allegedly hitting a 14-year-old bicyclist. The incident occurred around 11:57 a.m. on Center Drive near Thornton Drive, an area noted for its mix of residential and commercial activity. Despite the concerning nature of the crash, the teenager remarkably emerged unscathed, suffering no injuries.
Driving Under the Influence
In a startling revelation, troopers ascertained that Kalwitz was driving under the influence. Warrants obtained from the Pender County Detention Center shed light on his blood alcohol level, which was found to be a staggering .24—three times the legal limit for alcohol consumption while driving.
Damage and Aftermath
Apart from the clear breach of traffic laws, Kalwitz’s actions reportedly resulted in damage to the electric bike that the young cyclist was using. This adds to the list of concerns as local authorities and the community grapple with the fallout.
Town of Burgaw Responds
The Town of Burgaw has not remained silent on the matter. In a statement released shortly after the news broke, officials acknowledged the gravity of the situation:
“The Town of Burgaw has been made aware of the recent arrest of one of its employees, Hans Kalwitz, on serious traffic-related charges. This incident occurred outside of town limits and while the employee was off duty. The investigation and subsequent arrest were conducted by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.”
Following these events, Kalwitz, who began his role as finance officer on February 10, 2025, has been placed on administrative leave without pay. The town has confirmed that an internal investigation is underway. However, given the sensitive nature of the personnel issue and the ongoing legal proceedings, further comments are being withheld for the time being.
Community Reaction
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Burgaw community, noted for its tranquility and low-profile charm. Residents are expressing their concerns, particularly given the professional role of the accused. An unresolved question remains how this incident might impact Burgaw’s municipal operations, particularly its financial dealings.
Legal Proceedings
As Kalwitz faces his legal challenges, the local community and authorities alike will be keenly monitoring any developments. With such significant charges at stake, it remains to be seen what the eventual outcomes will be, both legally and professionally for Kalwitz.
Continuing Coverage
The situation is still unfolding, with more details expected to emerge in the coming days and weeks. Follow the latest updates on fintechfilter.com to stay informed as this complex and troubling situation develops.
In the interim, Burgaw holds its breath, waiting for clarity and resolution in a case that has captured the attention of all its residents. The repercussions of the incident echo far beyond just those directly involved, serving as a salient reminder of the unexpected ways life can change and impact a community.