N.C. State Trooper Involved in Tragic Outer Banks Accident
In an unfortunate traffic incident on March 14, 2024, a North Carolina Highway Patrol trooper and one other driver were injured in a multi-vehicle accident that significantly obstructed traffic near the historic Wright Brothers National Memorial on the Outer Banks.
Detailed Incident Report
The serious accident involved three vehicles and took place during the early morning hours, causing a hindrance to the regular flow of traffic for several hours. According to N.C. Highway Patrol 1st Sgt. Christopher Knox, the state trooper was heading north on U.S. 158 in Kill Devil Hills at around 8:40 a.m., nearing Prospect Street where the accident took place.
A Honda Odyssey minivan was moving south on U.S. 158, waiting in the left-turn lane for Prospect Street. It reportedly pulled out in front of the state trooper’s marked Dodge Charger patrol vehicle.
This resulted in the minivan striking the driver-side door of the trooper’s vehicle which propelled the patrol car onto Prospect Street. The car subsequently hit a stationary vehicle from the front and continued off the road, colliding with a traffic light. As a result, both the trooper and the driver of the Odyssey were transported to The Outer Banks Hospital for medical attention.
Aftermath and Investigation
Both individuals involved were duly treated at the hospital and later released. The accident was such that all three vehicles involved required towing services. Consequently, U.S. 158 in the northbound direction was shut down for approximately two hours following the incident.
The primary cause of the accident has been attributed to the Honda Odyssey’s driver’s failure to yield the right of way. However, despite the clear attribution, no charges had been filed against the driver at the time of reporting. Police investigation into the matter is ongoing.
The Impact on Traffic and Surrounding Areas
The incident had a major impact on the local traffic, specifically along U.S. 158, causing significant delays for commuters during peak morning hours. Furthermore, the crash site being near the popular Wright Brothers National Memorial might have added to the congestion caused by the road closure. Local residents and businesses were also potentially affected by the unexpected disruption in the usual traffic flow.
Conclusion
Incidents like these highlight the importance of traffic safety precautions and adherence to traffic rules. It is absolutely essential for motorists to observe traffic laws and yield the right of way when required, to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on the road.
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
