Correction News - Probation/parole officer dies in auto accident

North Carolina Department of Public Safety


	November 2000

Probation/Parole Officer Dies In Auto Accident

CONOVER- Wilson McCombs, probation/parole officer trainee in Catawba County, was killed in a four-vehicle wreck Sept. 19.

According to the N.C. Highway Patrol, the 49-year old McCombs died after the Jeep Cherokee he was driving collided with a van on N.C. 10. A pickup was apparently waiting to turn left onto Emmanuel Church Road when another truck came over the hill behind it and wasn’t able to stop in time. That truck hit the one in front of it and landed across the centerline. Then the driver of a van traveling in the other direction hit the truck, lost control and hit McCombs vehicle. Six others were hurt in the accident, but their injuries did not appear life threatening.

McCombs started his career with the department in 1991 as a correctional officer at Catawba Correctional Center. He later became a food service assistant and food service supervisor. In April 1998, McCombs transferred to Lincoln Correctional Center as a correctional officer. In June he started his training as a probation/parole officer.

Those who worked with McCombs say he will be sorely missed. "He had such a comfortable way about him that even if you had just met him, after five minutes you would feel like you had known him your whole life," said Betty Echerd, judicial district manager in Catawba County. "He had the best, most positive and outgoing personality."

"He got along with everyone," said Sgt. Bob Dixon of Lincoln Correctional Center. "He was a good natured person."

McCombs was also a Vietnam veteran. He leaves behind a wife and two adult sons.

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