Update: Police Charge Driver Who Fatally Struck Durham Woman with DUI

A Durham man has been charged with driving under the influence after police say he hit and killed a local woman along Route 17 Wednesday evening.

Irving Johnston, 57, of 27 Boulder View Court was driving north in his 2011 GMC pickup shortly before 5 p.m., when he struck 69 year old Joan Leighton-Smith near the intersection of Parsons Lane, according to Sgt. Sal Calvo.

Leighton-Smith, of 67 Oak Terrace, had been crossing the highway at the time of the accident, police said. She later died from her injuries.

Calvo said Johnston was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. He posted $500 non-surety bond and is due in court on Dec. 15.

The circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation and Johnston may face additional charges, Calvo said.

Anyone who witnessed the accident is asked to call Trp. Joseph O'Connell at 860-399-2100.