NEW HANOVER COUNTY — A vehicular collision on Middle Sound Loop left one dead on Friday night. Details are still emerging but, as of Saturday, no charges have been filed. According to authorities, the incident was not a hit-and-run, as reported on some social media outlets.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the wreck involved two vehicles.
The first vehicle, the female driver of which was killed, was found with the left front tire on the double yellow line, crossing over into the oncoming lane, according to Highway Patrol Trooper Lee, who responded to the scene. Based on damage to the driver’s side door, which was open, Lee said he believed the driver had gotten out of her car prior to the accident.
The second vehicle, driven by an as-of-yet unnamed male, apparently struck the door of the first vehicle and possibly the driver herself.
Following the crash, the driver of the second vehicle pulled over to the side of the road and spoke to authorities. According to Highway Patrol, the driver of the second vehicle reported seeing — and possibly striking — a raccoon, before string the first vehicle.
Based on the second driver’s statement and details from the scene, Lee said he believed the driver of the first vehicle may also have struck, or believed she had struck, a raccoon and pulled over to render aid. She was then struck by the second vehicle.
According to Highway Patrol, there was no evidence that either driver had been drinking or was intoxicated.
An official report from the incident was not yet available. This article will be updated with any new information as it becomes available.
