Deadly U.S. 70 Pileup Near Pine Level Paralyzes Morning Commute

One person was killed Thursday morning in a multi-vehicle crash that shut down westbound U.S. 70 near Pine Level in Johnston County, choking off traffic for hours as troopers and emergency crews picked through the wreckage.

Crash scene and response

At least three vehicles were involved in the westbound collision, described in early reports as a truck, an SUV and a third car with heavy damage. According to WRAL, Sky 5 aerial footage showed troopers, fire crews and tow operators spread across the highway as they worked to clear debris and mangled vehicles from the roadway.

WRAL reported that one person died at the scene. Officials were still working to confirm whether anyone else was injured as investigators documented the crash and collected evidence.

Traffic impacts

Chopper 11 footage and station reports showed traffic being pushed off U.S. 70 near Firetower Road while crews remained on scene. As reported by ABC11, multiple westbound lanes were closed, and drivers in the area were warned to expect significant delays while the investigation continued.

Authorities had not released the victim’s identity or any details about what led up to the crash. Those answers will likely have to wait until troopers finish their reconstruction work and review crash reports.

Why this stretch matters

The U.S. 70 corridor through Johnston County is no stranger to serious wrecks and close calls, a pattern local outlets have flagged repeatedly. Hoodline’s regional coverage, including a recent commute horror involving a road-rage shooting along this same route, has highlighted ongoing safety concerns for everyday drivers.

Troopers said the investigation into Thursday’s crash is active and ongoing, and that more details are expected as reports and testing are completed, according to WRAL.