Sampson County, NC — A devastating single-vehicle crash claimed the lives of two men, Reginald K. Howard and Marcedo Allen McNeil, on Saturday evening in a fiery collision that also caused a temporary power outage in the area near Garland. The incident has left the small community shaken and prompted an ongoing investigation by state law enforcement officials.
According to authorities, the crash occurred along a state highway just outside Garland when a sport utility vehicle veered off the road, struck a utility pole, and ultimately collided with a tree before bursting into flames. Emergency responders arrived shortly after the accident was reported and discovered the SUV engulfed in fire, making it impossible for the occupants to escape.
Preliminary reports suggest the vehicle was traveling eastbound at a high rate of speed before the driver lost control. Attempts to correct the vehicle’s trajectory caused it to cross the roadway, enter a roadside ditch, and strike a utility pole. The force of the impact brought down power lines, leaving nearby residents without electricity until crews could respond and restore service. The SUV then collided with a tree, igniting a fire that caused extensive damage and resulted in the deaths of both men at the scene.
Officials have identified one victim as the driver and the other as a passenger. Due to the severity of the fire and destruction of the vehicle, it remains unclear whether seat belts were in use at the time of the crash.
Traffic in the area was disrupted for several hours while law enforcement documented the scene and utility crews worked to repair the downed pole and restore power. Authorities urged drivers to exercise caution in the area and to adhere to safe driving practices, emphasizing the dangers of high-speed travel and loss of vehicle control.
State troopers continue to investigate the circumstances of the collision. While speed is considered a likely contributing factor, officials noted that the review is ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.
The tragic deaths of Howard and McNeil serve as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with excessive speed and the potential consequences of losing control of a vehicle. Friends, family, and community members are left to mourn the loss of two lives taken far too soon.