Questions arose as to whether the front wall of Catawba Valley Supply is structurally sound after a blue pickup truck crashed into the store Tuesday morning leaving a 5-foot hole in the front of the store’s brick building and

McDonald Wellborn, 84, of Newton, was driving west on U.S. 321 Business when he turned into the parking lot of Catawba Valley Supply and his foot slipped off the brake.  His truck crashed into the store about 10:40 a.m., Newton Police Officer C.M. Miller said.

The owner of the plumbing and appliance store, Alex Ervin, was talking on the phone when it happened.

“It sounded like a bomb went off, like an explosion,” he said.

Wellborn escaped with a bloody nose, however the 40-year-old building needed immediate repairs, according to Catawba County Assistant Building Services Chief Joel Herman.

“It’s a load-bearing wall that’s been compromised,” he said.

After inspecting the building, Herman determined the exterior wall had been pushed in at least two inches and would require at least two metal braces inside under the bar joists to sturdy the structure.

“I’ve got a drive-through now,” Ervin joked.

Miller said Wellborn will be responsible for the estimated $12,000 in damage to the building.  Two refrigerators were also damaged in the accident. She said no charges are expected at this time.