Fatal Crash Involving Car, Farm Tractor Under Investigation

BENSON, N.C. — A Benson man died after his car collided with a farm tractor in southern Johnston County. State troopers responded to the crash around 8:23 a.m. Friday on Woods Crossroads Road at the I-40 overpass.

Investigators said Otis Jikeam Giles, 36, of Marler Road, Benson, was driving a 2016 Dodge Charger north on Woods Crossroads Road when the vehicle slightly crossed the center line while crossing the I-40 overpass and sideswiped a John Deere farm tractor.

The tractor, equipped with a folded rear fertilizer sprayer boom, was being operated by Stephen Richard Thomas, 48, of Benson.

According to troopers, the left arm of the boom entered the driver’s side window of the Charger and struck Giles.

Investigators said Giles’ vehicle ran off the left side of the road, struck a cable box and two ditch culverts before crossing back into the northbound lane and eventually coming to rest in a ditch on the right shoulder.

Giles died as a result of his injuries.

Thomas was not injured in the crash.

Troopers said speed, inattention and crossing left of center were contributing factors. Giles was also not wearing a seat belt. Alcohol or drugs are not suspected, but toxicology results are pending.

No charges will be filed.

Woods Crossroads Road was closed for approximately three hours while authorities investigated the crash.

Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact the Highway Patrol District Office in Smithfield at 919-934-2186 or dial *HP (*47) from their cell phone to reach the Raleigh Communications Center.