A devastating head-on crash on N.C. Highway 55 in Sampson County, North Carolina, has claimed the lives of two people and left two others, including a 3-year-old girl, injured. The accident occurred on Tuesday morning, at approximately 7:04 a.m., near Oak Grove Church Road.
According to investigators, a black 2017 Honda Accord, traveling east, crossed the centerline and collided with a white 2013 Kia Sorento, heading west. The impact was severe, causing extensive damage to both vehicles, with their front ends completely destroyed.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, working quickly to assist those involved. Tragically, both drivers died at the scene. Eric Little, 30, of Coats, was driving the Honda Accord and was not wearing a seat belt. Lauren Knuckles, 31, of Dudley, was driving the Kia Sorento and was wearing her seat belt.
A 3-year-old girl, who was properly secured in a car seat in the Kia, survived the crash but sustained serious injuries. She was airlifted to WakeMed, a hospital in Raleigh, North Carolina, for treatment. Witnesses reported seeing two helicopters at the scene, one of which transported the child.
Ashley Morgan Walker, 30, also of Coats, was a passenger in the Honda and was not wearing a seat belt. She sustained serious injuries and was transported to WakeMed by ambulance.
The medical examiner arrived at the scene at 8:30 a.m. and confirmed the deaths of the two drivers. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of wearing seat belts and exercising caution while driving.
As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents like this one. The incident has left the community in shock, and condolences are pouring in for the families of the victims.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the crash, and officials are working to determine the cause of the accident. As more information becomes available, the community will be looking for answers about what led to this tragic incident.
For now, the focus is on supporting the families of the victims and the survivors of the crash. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for continued vigilance to prevent such tragedies.
