A Utah man was killed in a crash early Thursday morning, May 16, in Iredell County, North Carolina. Authorities identified the deceased as 31-year-old Eric Anthony Pompa of Layton, Utah.
The crash occurred around 2:00 a.m. on Interstate 77 North near U.S. 21 at Mile Marker 42. According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado traveling southbound in the northbound lanes struck a tractor-trailer head-on. The impact caused the tractor-trailer to overturn and catch fire.
Pompa, who was driving the Silverado, was reportedly wearing a seat belt but was ejected from the vehicle. He died at the scene from his injuries. The driver of the tractor-trailer, a Florida resident, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem.
Investigators believe impairment may have been a contributing factor in the crash. No charges will be filed.
As of 12:00 p.m., Friday, I-77 Northbound remained closed due to the accident. Drivers are advised to follow posted detours and use alternate routes.
