Wayne County, NC – Tragedy struck Wayne County late Sunday night when a high-speed police pursuit ended in a fatal crash, claiming the lives of two teenagers and leaving two others hospitalized. The incident unfolded after state troopers attempted to stop a speeding Ford Mustang traveling over 120 mph on U.S. Highway 70.
High-Speed Pursuit Sparks Danger
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, troopers first noticed the Mustang just before 11:30 p.m., traveling at extreme speeds. When officers activated their lights and sirens, the vehicle failed to stop, prompting a dangerous chase through county roads.
Radio traffic from Broadcastify captured the intensity of the pursuit, with one trooper noting, “They keep blacking out and turning some lights back on and turning lights back off again.” Authorities confirmed that the driver was weaving and making maneuvers that increased the risk to both law enforcement and the public.
Fatal Crash on Pinkney Road
The pursuit ended when the Mustang lost control on Pinkney Road near Kenly, crashing into a tree. Joshua Carter Jr., 18, and Braylen Newson, 16, both rear-seat passengers, were ejected from the vehicle due to the force of the collision and pronounced dead at the scene, as per WRAL.
Two others in the car—a 17-year-old driver and a 16-year-old front-seat passenger—survived the crash and were transported to UNC Wayne Hospital in Goldsboro with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities confirmed that both survivors are expected to face criminal charges related to the incident.
Evidence Found at the Scene
Troopers reported recovering alcohol, marijuana, and two firearms from the vehicle, adding to the seriousness of the case. Officials indicated that the presence of alcohol and drugs may have contributed to the reckless driving and loss of control.
Pursuits Governed by Public Safety
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol explained that officers weigh multiple factors before engaging in a pursuit, including the threat level to the public, traffic conditions, roadway type, and time of day. Supervisors have the authority to terminate a chase if it becomes too dangerous, highlighting the difficult balance between enforcing the law and protecting community safety.
Troopers emphasized that the decision to pursue the Mustang was based on the extreme risk posed by the driver traveling at high speeds, reinforcing the seriousness of fleeing law enforcement.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, including reviewing the circumstances that led to the high-speed chase and the presence of illegal substances in the vehicle. The State Highway Patrol is coordinating with local law enforcement to determine any further charges and to assess whether additional safety measures are warranted on Wayne County roadways.
If you witnessed this crash or have information about the chase, share your tips in the comments below to help law enforcement with their ongoing investigation and keep our community safe.
