5 killed in crash on I-95 in Wilson County involving 3 tractor-trailers and 2 SUVs

WILSON, N.C. (WTVD) — Five people were killed in a crash involving multiple vehicles on Interstate 95 North in Wilson County, officials said Wednesday afternoon.

Chopper 11 was over the scene near Mile Marker 113 in the town of Lucama.

The crash happened shortly before 1:30 p.m. and involved three tractor-trailers and two SUVs.

North Carolina State Highway Patrol said a tractor-trailer hauling oranges crashed into the two SUVs and a tractor-trailer hauling eggs. A third tractor-trailer, which was hauling sand, was also hit.

The truck hauling oranges erupted into flames and was badly burned. The truck hauling eggs was pushed off the road into the ditch.

At least three people were taken to Wilson Medical Center near downtown for treatment. Their conditions were not released.

Identities of the victims were not immediately known, a Highway Patrol spokesman said. Troopers are still working to determine the cause of the crash.

“We’re headed to New York to have a little fun before school starts back. And we got caught up in here,” said driver Michael Broughton.

His family’s trip north was delayed after traffic was brought to a standstill for five hours

“It’s really sad man. It really just touched me, ” said Broughton.

Clellan Johnson, a truck driver for thirty years, was shaken by the news.

“I’m sorry for the family. I will pray for them tonight,” said Johnson.

Traffic in the area was snarled for several miles. One lane of traffic reopened around 5:30 p.m. to allow the cars stuck on the interstate past the detour to pass through. Once those cars passed, NCDOT crews closed the road again and resumed their work to clean the interstate.

For drivers and truckers, it’s a scary reminder of how the highways can be a dangerous place.

“Be aware of your surroundings and try to make sure everyone else is safe,” said Johnson.

Authorities said the driver of the semi-truck that triggered the crash is facing charges.

ABC11’s Josh Chapin contributed to this report.