Passenger Killed In Two Vehicle Collision

SAMPSON COUNTY – The Highway Patrol says reckless driving was a contributing factor in a fatal two car collision. The accident was reported at 8:53pm Saturday on Minnie Hall Road at Dunn Road near Salemberg.

Troopers said a 2012 Chevy Tahoe operated by Daniel Velazquez, age 19, of Clinton failed to stop at a stop sign and struck a 2009 Honda passenger car driven by Anthony Williams, age 62, of Autryville.

After the impact, the Tahoe traveled off the roadway and overturned several times in a field ejecting an unrestrained passenger, Esmeralds Salas, age 19, of Autryville, NC. Salas died at the scene.

Both drivers were hurt in the crash. Velazquez was transported to the hospital by ambulance with non-life threatening injuries. Williams sustained very serious injuries and was airlifted to WakeMed.

The Highway Patrol said alcohol does not appear to be a factor.