One Killed, One Critically Hurt In Johnston County Interstate Crash

KENLY, N.C. — A passenger was killed and the driver suffered critical injuries after a crane truck overturned on Interstate 95 in Johnston County Tuesday afternoon.

The crash was reported at 4:02 p.m. on Interstate 95 northbound near the 106 mile marker, according to Sgt. Christopher Best with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

The preliminary investigation indicates a 2008 Kenworth construction crane was traveling north in the right lane when one of its tires ruptured, causing the driver to lose control. The truck overturned into the median.

The passenger, Felix Guadalupe Reta, 47, of Landis, NC died from his injuries.

The driver, Wilson Jacob Brick, 46, of Granite Quarry, NC was transported to WakeMed in Raleigh in critical condition.

The truck is owned by Superior Walls Systems LLC.

Investigators said alcohol and speed are not believed to be factors in the crash. Troopers believe tire failure was the only contributing factor.

It was not immediately clear whether either occupant was wearing a seat belt because of the extensive damage to the cab.

The crash blocked one northbound lane and one southbound lane of Interstate 95 as the overturned crane remained in the median.

Lane closures are expected to remain in place through approximately 10:00 p.m.

The crash remains under investigation by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.