SMITHFIELD – A section of Downtown Smithfield is without power this afternoon (Tuesday) due to a motor vehicle accident. The collision happened around 12 Noon on North Second Street.
A southbound black SUV ran off the roadway to the right striking a power pole. The vehicle then traveled off the roadway to the left, running over at least two street signs, before colliding with the front of a home. No one was in the home at the time it was struck.
The suspected driver reportedly jumped and ran from the vehicle. He was captured by Smithfield Police a short time later. He was transported to the hospital for observation.
Smithfield electric crews are working to replace the broken power pole and restore electricity to a number of homes and businesses. Several traffic lights are also without power.
A section of North Second Street between Caswell Street and North Street will remain closed until the power pole is replaced. Officials estimate power should be restored by 5:00pm.
Smithfield Police, NC Highway Patrol, Smithfield Fire and Johnston County EMS responded to the accident scene. The cause of the single vehicle accident remains under investigation.
