Teen Arrested After Stolen Vehicle Crashes Into Church
An 18-year-old was arrested early Wednesday morning after allegedly stealing a vehicle that subsequently crashed into a church in Fayetteville. Demear Denning, a Black male, faces multiple charges following the incident that occurred around 2:00 a.m. on July 23, 2025.
Police responded to a report of a stolen vehicle. The preliminary investigation indicated that Denning had taken the victim’s vehicle without permission.
Officers located a vehicle matching the stolen vehicle's description, which had a broken passenger-side window. A license plate check confirmed it had been reported stolen. Two Black male suspects, both wearing masks, were observed inside the vehicle. Before officers could initiate a traffic stop, the vehicle sped away at a high rate of speed. It then crashed into Berean Baptist Church, located at 518 Glenford Drive, prior to any police pursuit.
After the crash, both the driver and passenger fled on foot. Officers apprehended Denning, identifying him as the driver.
Denning has been charged with: Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle, Felony Flee to Elude, Careless and Reckless Driving, No Operator’s License, Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid a Collision, Failure to Maintain Lane Control, Resist, Delay, and Obstruct (2 counts), and Conspiracy.
He is currently being held at the Cumberland County Detention Center under a $25,000 secured bond.
The second suspect escaped, and investigators are working to identify them. Detectives are actively investigating the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact Lieutenant J. Littlejohn at 910-818-3468. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Fayetteville/Cumberland County Crimestoppers:
Call: (910) 483-TIPS (8477)
Download: the FREE "P3 Tips" app
