House in Painter to be demolished

A house in Painter that was struck by a vehicle is reportedly set to be demolished.

Painter Mayor Connie Campbell stated that the current owner of the property has informed the town they are awaiting an insurance settlement check related to the accident. The owner has also indicated that a contractor is ready to begin demolition as soon as the settlement is received.

The house was struck on Monday, October 21, 2024, at 6:29 PM by a vehicle driven by 76-year-old Napoleon Claude Cole of Melfa, who tragically died at the scene.

The crash caused significant damage, including a large hole in the downstairs section of the house where the vehicle struck. Recently, the upstairs portion of the damaged corner collapsed, sending heavy blocks from the house onto Route 13.

For safety reasons, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has closed the right-hand southbound lane near the house. The lane closure is necessary due to the structural instability of the corner following the accident and will likely remain in place until the demolition is completed.