ONSLOW COUNTY, N.C. – Authorities are urging motorists to steer clear of a heavily traveled section of Onslow County following a deadly crash Friday involving multiple vehicles.
According to the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of a “severe multi-car collision” on Gum Branch Road near Peewee Murphy Lane. Emergency crews rushed to the scene shortly after the crash was reported, where they found several vehicles badly damaged. Officials confirmed that at least one person has died as a result of the wreck.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is now leading the investigation into the crash, working to determine the sequence of events that caused the tragedy. Details about the victim’s identity and whether others were injured have not yet been released. Authorities say more information will be provided once families have been notified and the investigation progresses.
Traffic in the area came to a standstill as deputies and highway patrol officers worked to secure the roadway, redirect vehicles, and allow emergency responders safe access to the crash site. The sheriff’s office has advised drivers to avoid Gum Branch Road altogether while the investigation continues. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes, including Cow Horn Road and Francktown Road, until the area is cleared and deemed safe for travel again.
Residents in the community say the stretch of Gum Branch Road near Peewee Murphy Lane is often busy and can be hazardous during peak hours. Friday’s fatal crash has renewed calls from some neighbors for increased patrols and potential safety improvements in the area.
Authorities have not yet said how many vehicles were involved or whether speed, impairment, or weather conditions may have been contributing factors. Tow crews remained at the scene late into the afternoon to remove the wreckage and assist with cleanup efforts.
The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office and the Highway Patrol are expected to release further updates as the investigation continues. In the meantime, officials are reminding drivers to remain cautious, avoid distractions, and obey speed limits—particularly in high-traffic corridors such as Gum Branch Road.
Would you like me to expand this further into a news-style article with quotes from officials and local residents (fictional but realistic), or keep it strictly factual like a press release?
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