Ghassan Al-Sabbagh

Quick summary on Ghassan Al-Sabbagh

Dr. Ghassan Al-Sabbagh, a 55-year-old physician based in Raleigh, North Carolina, was arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident that occurred on March 20, 2024. The incident resulted in the death of 64-year-old pedestrian Cornelia Olero Amissah.

Incident Details: On the morning of March 20, Amissah was walking along Capital Boulevard near the intersection with Trawick Road when she was struck by two vehicles. The first vehicle stopped, but the second did not. Surveillance footage from a nearby supermarket captured the incident, aiding police in their investigation.

Arrest and Charges: During a routine traffic checkpoint on Capital Boulevard at 7 a.m. on a subsequent Thursday, officers noticed a metallic-colored Lexus matching the description from the surveillance footage. The vehicle was driven by Dr. Al-Sabbagh. Authorities obtained an arrest warrant, and he was taken into custody in Louisburg later that day. Dr. Al-Sabbagh faces felony hit-and-run charges for his alleged involvement in the incident.

Community and Professional Response: Dr. Al-Sabbagh is affiliated with Gastrointestinal & Hepato Consultants. The practice released a statement expressing support for him, describing him as an “exceptional physician and a wonderful person,” but refrained from commenting on the ongoing legal proceedings.

Victim’s Family and Community Efforts: Amissah, originally from Kenya and a mother of three, was mourned by her family and community. Efforts were made to raise funds to repatriate her body to Kenya for burial. A charitable event was organized, and online contributions were solicited to support the family’s endeavors.

The arrest of Dr. Ghassan Al-Sabbagh highlights the serious legal and ethical implications of hit-and-run incidents. As the legal process unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the responsibilities drivers bear and the profound impact such events have on victims’ families and communities.