MOUNT HOLLY, N.C. — Authorities in Gaston County are investigating a fatal traffic crash that claimed the life of a local woman Monday morning along North Carolina Highway 27 near Meadow Lane. The deadly collision involved a head-on crash between a passenger car and a commercial tractor-trailer, prompting an extended roadway closure and ongoing investigation by state troopers.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the victim has been identified as 60-year-old Kim Williams. Preliminary reports indicate that Williams was driving in a legal passing zone when she attempted to overtake another vehicle. During the maneuver, her car collided head-on with an oncoming tractor-trailer, resulting in a severe impact that left her fatally injured.
Emergency responders arrived quickly but were unable to save Williams, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the tractor-trailer was assessed by medical personnel but declined hospital transport. Troopers confirmed that no other vehicles were involved and no additional injuries occurred as a result of the crash.
The section of NC Highway 27 where the collision occurred was closed for several hours Monday morning to allow investigators to document evidence, including vehicle positions, skid marks, and debris patterns. The closure also ensured crews could safely remove the damaged vehicles and clear the roadway before reopening it to the public.
Troopers said they are reviewing multiple factors, such as speed, road conditions, and environmental visibility, to determine the precise cause of the crash. Investigators plan to analyze witness statements and possible dash camera footage from nearby vehicles to help reconstruct the moments leading up to the collision. Officials noted that even though Williams was in a legal passing zone, the timing and distance between approaching vehicles are critical when executing passing maneuvers safely.
The North Carolina Highway Patrol extended condolences to Williams’ family and friends, calling the loss a sobering reminder of the dangers of overtaking at high speeds on rural highways. Authorities urged drivers to remain cautious, especially on two-lane roads where oncoming traffic can appear suddenly.