WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Community Mourns Loss of Two Residents Killed in Tragic Crash on Thomasville Road
The city of Winston-Salem is reeling from a devastating loss after a tragic two-vehicle crash on Thursday morning, October 9, 2025, claimed the lives of two beloved residents and left the community searching for answers.
The Winston-Salem Police Department confirmed that the collision occurred just after 8:30 a.m. along a stretch of Thomasville Road, a well-traveled corridor that quickly became the site of heartbreak. Authorities have identified the victims as 68-year-old Darlene Schuwan Hauser and 55-year-old Maurice Singh, both long-time residents of Winston-Salem and cherished members of their respective communities.
According to the preliminary investigation, Hauser was driving a 2016 Ford Escape southbound when, for reasons still under investigation, her vehicle crossed the center line into oncoming traffic. Singh, traveling northbound in a 2013 Honda Accord, was unable to avoid the collision. The impact was severe and resulted in both vehicles sustaining catastrophic damage.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but tragically, both Hauser and Singh were pronounced dead at the scene.
A Deeply Felt Loss
News of the crash sent shockwaves throughout the community, with tributes pouring in for both individuals from family, friends, and neighbors.
Darlene Schuwan Hauser, known to many as “Ms. Hauser,” was a retired school administrator who spent more than three decades serving local public schools. She was widely admired for her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering dedication to children’s education.
“She made every student feel seen and heard,” one former colleague said. “Darlene had a gift for lifting others up—her compassion was unmatched.”
Maurice Singh, a local small business owner and father of three, was equally beloved. He ran a popular neighborhood convenience store and was often seen handing out free snacks to children or giving friendly advice to customers.
“He was the heart of our block,” said a longtime customer. “Always smiling, always helping. It’s hard to imagine this community without him.”
Investigation Continues
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The Winston-Salem Police Department’s Traffic Enforcement Unit is leading the inquiry, reviewing any available surveillance or dashcam footage and conducting witness interviews.
At this time, no mechanical failures or impairments have been identified, and investigators have not yet ruled out the possibility of a medical emergency or other contributing factors. Police emphasized that the incident appears to be a tragic accident and have asked for patience and privacy for the families involved.
Community Response and Support
As the investigation continues, the greater Winston-Salem community has mobilized in support of the victims’ families. Vigils are being organized, and several community leaders have called for renewed attention to road safety and infrastructure improvements on Thomasville Road, which some say has seen an increase in high-speed traffic in recent years.
Grief counselors from local organizations and faith groups have been made available for students, staff, and community members affected by the loss, especially those who worked with Hauser in the school system or frequented Singh’s store.
“This is not just a traffic accident — this is a community tragedy,” said Pastor Leonard Grey of Faith Baptist Church. “We are grieving together, and we will get through this together.”
Funeral Arrangements and Tributes
Funeral arrangements for both Darlene Hauser and Maurice Singh are expected to be announced in the coming days. Their families have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support but have requested privacy as they navigate the early stages of grief.
Local residents have already begun placing flowers, candles, and handwritten messages at the scene of the crash on Thomasville Road—a solemn reminder of lives lost too soon.
Final Words
As the city of Winston-Salem mourns the tragic passing of Darlene Schuwan Hauser and Maurice Singh, their legacies endure in the many lives they touched. In classrooms, in corner stores, and in the hearts of friends and neighbors, their impact will not be forgotten.
Authorities continue to urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area to contact the Winston-Salem Police Department at (336) 773-7700.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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