Renowned Actor from Classic Film “Deliverance” Dies in Tragic Car Accident in Haywood County

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HAYWOOD COUNTY, N.C. – In a devastating turn of events, Herbert “Cowboy” Coward, who gained fame for his role as the Toothless Man in the iconic 1972 movie “Deliverance,” tragically lost his life in a fatal car crash on Wednesday afternoon. This incident occurred in Haywood County, North Carolina, leaving the community and film industry mourning the loss of a talented actor.

According to the North Carolina Highway Patrol (NCHP), the accident took place around 3:30 p.m. on U.S. 19/23, situated between Clyde and Canton. Preliminary investigations reveal that the 85-year-old Coward was exiting a parking lot when his vehicle was struck by a pickup truck driven by a 16-year-old.

Tragically, both Coward and his passenger, identified as 78-year-old Bertha Brooks, succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Shockingly, investigations unveiled that neither occupant was wearing their seatbelt, potentially exacerbating the severity of the accident’s outcome.

Adding to the heart-wrenching nature of the incident, Coward’s beloved pets, a chihuahua and a squirrel, also lost their lives in the collision, leaving a void of companionship for the grieving family.

The 16-year-old driver of the pickup truck sustained injuries and was immediately rushed to the hospital for medical treatment. The severity of their injuries remains undisclosed at this time as authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the accident.

Currently, no charges have been filed in relation to the incident. Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the collision and whether any negligent actions or other factors contributed to this tragic accident.

This devastating loss has not only impacted the friends, family, and loved ones of Herbert Coward and Bertha Brooks but has also left a lasting void in the world of cinema. The Toothless Man’s memorable portrayal in “Deliverance” will forever be etched in the hearts of movie enthusiasts around the globe, ensuring that his legacy lives on.

As the investigation progresses, the community joins together in extending their deepest condolences to the families affected by this heartbreaking accident. The loss of Herbert Coward serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for all individuals to prioritize wearing their seatbelts while traveling.

Queen City News remains committed to providing the latest updates on this tragic incident and other news stories shaping North Carolina and beyond.