A motorist was killed Wednesday morning in a two-vehicle crash on NC 18 South near Laurel Haven Avenue.

Reports with the Highway Patrol say a Dodge pickup was traveling north around 7:30 when the driver crossed the center lane and struck a Chevrolet pickup.

The person who was driving the Chevrolet reportedly died at the scene.

Officials say speed is thought to have been a factor in the accident.

Burke EMS, George Hildebran Fire and Rescue, and Burke REACT also responded.

The Hickory Police Department has implemented the ‘Blue Courage’ program this week – the first department in the state to institute the program.

The new initiative comes after receiving more than 15-thousand dollars from the Justice Assistance Grant program and is aimed at officer wellness.

During the course, officers are equipped with tools to develop the right heart-set, mindset, and skillset enabling them to meet the challenging demands of modern policing.

20 officers have already received the Blue Courage training, and 4 of those trained are currently undergoing further training to become program instructors to facilitate classes for others in the department.

A Hickory restaurant is hit by armed robbers Wednesday morning.

Around 12:30, a suspect had employees re-enter Arby’s on Highway 70 Southeast after closing, and obtained an undisclosed amount of money.

Reports say the suspect then fled on foot.

He is described as a white male, 5 feet 11 inches tall and was wearing a dark sweatshirt and dark pants.

Anyone having information regarding the incident is encouraged to call Hickory Police at 328-5551.

A three-year-old was struck and killed in Cleveland County after wandering into the roadway early Wednesday morning.

The child was reportedly being watched by a grandparent while his parents were working third shift.

The child wandered from the home around 6 am and was walking along the side of the road when a driver spotted him and stopped to attempt to rescue him.

Reports say the toddler however was struck by two vehicles before the person could get to him.

Highway Patrol reports say the two drivers will likely not face charges; although an investigation continues as to how the child was able to wander away from his caregiver.