KENLY, N.C. — Authorities have charged a man following a fatal crash that occurred around midnight Saturday near Kenly, which claimed the life of a passenger and sent the driver to the hospital.
According to the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the collision occurred on Weaver Road, just off U.S. Highway 301, when a vehicle ran off the road and struck a tree. The driver, identified as Vicencio Pineda, 22, of Apex, reportedly fled the scene on foot after the crash. Law enforcement agencies, including the Highway Patrol, Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, and Kenly Police Department, conducted a search and located Pineda about half a mile from the scene. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The passenger, Jesus Marico-Delgado, 27, of Bear Creek, was pronounced dead at the scene. First responders said he had been pinned inside the vehicle when they arrived.
On Monday, the Highway Patrol confirmed that Pineda has been charged with Felony Death by Motor Vehicle and Felony Hit and Run involving Serious Injury. Authorities noted that the investigation into the crash is ongoing.
Officials urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the Highway Patrol to assist with the investigation. The tragic collision underscores the dangers of leaving the scene of an accident and serves as a reminder for drivers to exercise caution on local roadways.
Marico-Delgado’s family, friends, and community members mourn his sudden and tragic loss, emphasizing the devastating impact such crashes have on loved ones.
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