KANNAPOLIS, N.C. — A 16-year-old was killed in a traffic crash early Wednesday morning, the City of Kannapolis confirms.
According to officials, the crash happened near the intersection of Dale Earnhardt Blvd. and Rogers Lake Road at around 12:56 a.m.
Officials said when they responded to the scene they discovered a 2015 Chevrolet Camaro in a small grass lot with heavy front-end damage from striking a large tree.
The driver, 16-year-old Demauree Crowder, was transported to Atrium Health Cabarrus, while his passenger, 16-year-old Antonio Meadows Jr., died at the scene.
Speed and alcohol are suspected to be factors in the crash, officials said.
Cabarrus County Schools issued the following statement:
"We are saddened to learn about this accident. Both of the young people involved are Cabarrus County Schools students at the Opportunity School.
We offer our condolences to the Meadows Family and are praying for Demauree.
Our district’s crisis response team will be available for students and staff on Monday at the school."
Anyone having additional information about this traffic crash is asked to contact Sergeant M.B. Rowland at 704.920.4049 or by email at browland@kannapolisnc.gov.