Executive Summary
- A fatal single-vehicle crash occurred Saturday evening on NC-411 near Garland, North Carolina.
- The North Carolina State Highway Patrol identified the victims as Marcedo Allen McNeil and Reginald K. Howard.
- Investigators report the vehicle was speeding before striking a power pole and tree, then catching fire.
Two individuals lost their lives Saturday evening in a fiery single-vehicle collision in Sampson County, according to reports from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP).
Troopers responded to the incident around 6:30 p.m. on NC-411, locally known as Harrells Highway, located just east of Garland. Investigators state that a 2006 Toyota Sequoia was traveling eastbound at a high rate of speed when the vehicle veered off the roadway. The SUV reportedly crossed the centerline and struck a ditch before colliding with a power pole.
The impact brought down power lines, and the vehicle subsequently struck a tree before bursting into flames. The NCSHP confirmed that both the driver, identified as 33-year-old Marcedo Allen McNeil of Stedman, and the passenger, 39-year-old Reginald K. Howard of Harrells, were pronounced dead at the scene.
Traffic Accident Investigation
Preliminary findings from the State Highway Patrol indicate that excessive speed was a primary factor leading to the loss of control. Due to the extensive fire damage sustained by the vehicle, authorities noted that it is currently undetermined whether the occupants were wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision. The investigation is ongoing as officials assess the scene and the damage to local utility infrastructure.
