A devastating head-on collision on N.C. Highway 55 in Sampson County, North Carolina, has shaken the local community. The tragic incident, which occurred on the morning of January 9, 2025, claimed the lives of Eric Little, 30, of Coats, and Lauren Knuckles, 31, of Dudley. Two others, including a 3-year-old girl, sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency care.
Details of the Accident
Shortly after 7:00 a.m., emergency responders, including the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, were called to the scene of a horrific crash near Oak Grove Church Road. Upon arrival, they encountered the wreckage of a black 2017 Honda Accord and a white 2013 Kia Sorento. The crash, described by witnesses as “devastating,” left both vehicles with their front ends completely destroyed.
Initial reports indicate that Eric Little, who was driving the Honda Accord eastbound, crossed the centerline into the westbound lane, colliding head-on with the Kia Sorento driven by Lauren Knuckles. The impact was so severe that both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene.
Victims Identified
- Eric Little, 30, of Coats, was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Authorities believe this significantly contributed to the fatal outcome of his injuries.
- Lauren Knuckles, 31, of Dudley, was wearing a seat belt while driving the Kia Sorento. Despite the precaution, the intensity of the crash proved fatal.
The collision also left a 3-year-old girl and a female passenger from the Honda Accord critically injured, amplifying the heartbreak of this tragic event.
Survivors Fighting for Their Lives
Among the survivors of this tragic crash were:
- A 3-year-old girl, who was properly secured in a car seat in the Kia Sorento. She sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to WakeMed for emergency treatment. Witnesses at the scene reported seeing two helicopters land near the crash site to facilitate swift medical evacuation. As of the latest updates, the child remains in critical but stable condition, and her recovery is being closely monitored by medical professionals.
- Ashley Morgan Walker, 30, of Coats, was a passenger in the Honda Accord. She was not wearing a seat belt and sustained severe injuries in the crash. Emergency responders transported her by ambulance to WakeMed, where she is undergoing treatment for her injuries.
The Scene of the Accident
The crash site on N.C. Highway 55 was described by first responders as harrowing. The vehicles involved were almost unrecognizable due to the extensive damage sustained in the collision. Debris from the vehicles was scattered across the roadway, and emergency crews worked diligently to extract the victims and provide aid.
The medical examiner arrived at approximately 8:30 a.m. to officially confirm the deaths of the drivers. Traffic on the highway was disrupted for several hours as law enforcement and cleanup crews worked to clear the scene.
Community Shock and Mourning
The Sampson County community is grappling with the sudden and tragic loss of life. Neighbors and friends of the victims have expressed their grief and offered support to the survivors and their families.
“Eric was a kind-hearted person who always had a smile on his face. This news is just devastating,” shared a friend of Little. Similarly, Knuckles was remembered as a devoted mother and active member of her local community. “She was always there to lend a hand. This is a heartbreaking loss for everyone who knew her,” said a family friend.
Calls for Road Safety
The State Highway Patrol is using this tragedy to emphasize the importance of road safety measures. Officials have urged drivers to:
- Always wear seat belts, regardless of their seating position in the vehicle.
- Avoid distractions and maintain full attention while driving.
- Adhere to speed limits and exercise caution, especially on rural roads like N.C. Highway 55, where visibility and road conditions can pose additional risks.
Troopers also highlighted the role seat belts play in reducing fatalities, pointing out that Eric Little and Ashley Walker were not wearing seat belts, which may have worsened their injuries.
Ongoing Investigation
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that the Honda Accord crossed the centerline, but investigators are still working to determine why this occurred. Factors such as distracted driving, fatigue, mechanical failure, or road conditions will be considered.
Authorities are appealing to witnesses or anyone with information about the crash to come forward. Their input could provide crucial insights into the moments leading up to the collision. The public can contact local law enforcement or the North Carolina State Highway Patrol with any relevant information.
A Community United in Grief
The tragedy has united the Sampson County community in grief and support for the victims’ families. Friends, neighbors, and community leaders have organized prayer vigils and set up fundraisers to assist the families with medical and funeral expenses. The resilience and compassion of the community are evident as they rally around those affected by this heartbreaking event.
“Incidents like this remind us how fragile life is,” said a local pastor who led a prayer vigil for the victims. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families during this incredibly difficult time.”
Remembering the Victims
Eric Little
Eric Little, 30, was a resident of Coats, North Carolina. Friends and family remember him as a kind and outgoing individual who was always ready to help others. “Eric loved life and had a big heart. He will be sorely missed,” said a family member.
Lauren Knuckles
Lauren Knuckles, 31, of Dudley, was a devoted mother and a cherished member of her community. She is survived by her 3-year-old daughter, who is now fighting for her life following the crash. “Lauren was a light in so many lives. Her smile could brighten any room,” shared a close friend.
A Wake-Up Call for All Drivers
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of the road and the importance of safe driving practices. The loss of two lives, along with the critical injuries sustained by others, underscores the need for vigilance and adherence to safety measures while driving.
Authorities hope that this incident will encourage drivers to prioritize safety and prevent future tragedies on North Carolina’s roads.
Conclusion
The head-on collision on N.C. Highway 55 in Sampson County has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew Eric Little and Lauren Knuckles. As the 3-year-old girl and Ashley Walker fight to recover from their injuries, the community mourns and supports their families during this unimaginably difficult time.
The investigation into the crash continues, and authorities are determined to uncover the full circumstances that led to this tragic event. For now, the memory of Eric and Lauren will live on in the hearts of their loved ones, and their untimely deaths serve as a powerful call to action for improved road safety.
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