CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. — A 17-year-old was killed in a head-on crash in Caldwell County Wednesday night, state troopers said.
The crash happened around 7:30 p.m. on U.S. 64 near Brush Mountain Road, according to North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Troopers said a 2004 Chevrolet Malibu crossed the center line and hit a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado head-on. The driver of the Malibu, 17-year-old Justin Nicholas Ray, died at the scene of the crash.
The driver of the Silverado, a 63-year-old Lenoir man, was taken to the hospital and is expected to recover. Two people who were in another vehicle that hit a piece of debris from the crash were evaluated for minor injuries and did not go to the hospital.
Troopers say that excessive speed was a contributing factor in the crash. No charges will be filed in the case.
WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the many issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.
WCNC Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at WCNC Charlotte.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeart
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.