Tragedy struck Catawba County on Saturday night following a severe car crash that resulted in one fatality and four people injured, as reported by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. The crash took place around 11 p.m. on US Highway 70 at Heart Drive, when a 2002 Honda Accord, operated by 21-year-old Adriel Rodriguez from Kannapolis, veered off the road and collided with several trees. WBTV confirms the impact caused all occupants to be ejected from the vehicle.
According to WCNC, among the ejected was 20-year-old Rocky Allan Houston of Conover, who perished at the scene from his injuries. Rodriguez and the other three passengers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities revealed that none of the car's occupants were utilizing seatbelts at the time of the accident.
The preliminary investigation by the Highway Patrol suggested excessive speed and impairment as the principal contributors to the catastrophic event. WCCB Charlotte detailed that the 2002 Honda Accord was heading east when it lost control and disastrously swerved off the left side of the highway before coming to rest amongst the trees.
Traffic on US Highway 70 was closed for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation, creating delays and diversions for late-night travelers. As the investigation continues, the State Highway Patrol has indicated that charges are pending.
