Wilmington, NC — A fiery early morning crash off Interstate 40 near Wilmington claimed the life of Lana Hatoum, a 38-year-old woman from Westhampton, New York, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP).
The fatal single-vehicle accident occurred around 5 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, near the eastbound off-ramp from I-40 to Gordon Road. In a statement released July 16, troopers confirmed that Hatoum was driving a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee when the vehicle veered off the roadway.
According to investigators, Hatoum was traveling eastbound on I-40 and attempted to exit onto Gordon Road when she ran off the left side of the ramp. Her vehicle struck several trees, overturned, and caught fire. She was pronounced dead at the scene. No other passengers were in the vehicle at the time of the crash.
Emergency responders arrived quickly but were unable to save Hatoum. The vehicle was severely damaged, and the fire made recovery efforts especially difficult.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding what may have caused Hatoum to lose control. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash.
Hatoum’s sudden passing has left family and friends in deep mourning. Originally from Westhampton, New York, Lana is being remembered as a vibrant, loving woman with a kind heart and generous spirit. Tributes have begun appearing on social media, reflecting the grief and shock felt by those who knew her.
Funeral arrangements and a formal obituary are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
As the investigation continues, the community reflects on the fragility of life and remembers a life lost too soon.