By Robert Jordan
Dunn Daily Record
ERWIN – A Sanford resident lost his life in a one-car collision in Harnett County early Wednesday morning, according to troopers with the N.C. Highway Patrol.
Justin Johnell Bass, 38, was traveling on N.C. Highway 217 south of Erwin when his white 2005 Dodge Caravan reportedly left the roadway and struck a tree. An off-duty Hoke County Sheriff’s Office deputy was headed home when he discovered the vehicle off the road and in the trees.
Bass was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. He was the only occupant of the vehicle.
The deputy called 911 and the Harnett County Emergency Communications Center dispatched Erwin Fire Department and Rescue Squad to the scene at 2:18 a.m., officials reported. Troopers with the NC State Highway Patrol were summoned at 2:25 a.m. to investigate the fatal collision.
Erwin Fire Department units were able to clear the scene and the highway was reopened to traffic at 3:55 a.m.
The victim’s family has already been notified. The cause of the collision is still under investigation.
