Smithfield Resident Killed In Single-Vehicle Crash

BENSON, N.C. – A 74-year-old Smithfield resident died Saturday afternoon after a vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree in southern Johnston County.

The crash occurred around 1:05 p.m. on NC 96 South near Godwin Lake Road in the Meadow community

According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Brindle Wood Goodwin was driving a black Mazda southbound on NC 96 when the vehicle crossed the centerline, traveled off the left side of the roadway, and collided with a tree.

Goodwin, the lone occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to investigators, a third-party caller had reported the vehicle driving reckless shortly before the crash. The caller told authorities the Mazda was traveling erratically and weaving across the roadway.

State troopers said speed and alcohol have been ruled out as contributing factors in the collision. Investigators said a medical condition cannot be ruled out at this time, and toxicology results are pending.

Authorities also reported Goodwin was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

NC 96 near Godwin Lake Road was closed for approximately two hours while troopers investigated the collision and crews cleared the scene.

The crash remains under investigation by the State Highway Patrol.