The North Carolina State Highway Patrol responded to the two-vehicle accident on December 23, involving a high-speed impact that sent both vehicles off the roadway.
Sequence of the Crash
According to Highway Patrol officials, the incident began when a Suzuki, driven by Kevin Cooley, 69, was traveling westbound on US 19 near Jones Cove Road. Authorities noted the vehicle was traveling at a "high rate of speed" just before the impact.
As the Suzuki approached the on-ramp to US 74, it struck a Honda. The force of the collision resulted in the following:
The Honda: Was forced off the right side of the road, where it struck a guardrail and overturned, eventually coming to rest upside down.
The Suzuki: Flipped multiple times across the roadway.
Casualties and Condition
Troopers confirmed that Cooley was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and was ejected from the vehicle as it overturned. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Honda, whose identity has not been released, was treated by emergency medical services at the scene for minor injuries.
Local Impact and Safety
The crash caused significant delays near the US 19 and US 74 interchange as crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigators mapped the scene. The Highway Patrol continues to emphasize the importance of seatbelt use and adhering to posted speed limits, particularly during the busy holiday travel season.
WNCTimes