NEWTON, N.C. — A tragic head-on collision late Saturday night, October 25, 2025, on Settlemyre Bridge Road near White Oak Drive in Catawba County has left one man dead and several others critically injured, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP). The devastating crash has shaken the Newton community and reignited concerns over the deadly consequences of impaired driving.
Authorities said the crash occurred around 9:10 p.m. when a 2019 Nissan Altima, driven by 40-year-old Christopher Shea Houser of Newton, crossed the centerline and slammed head-on into a 2018 Infiniti Q50 traveling westbound. Houser, who was not wearing a seat belt, died at the scene from his injuries. Troopers confirmed that Houser had a history of prior DUI arrests, and preliminary findings indicate that impairment and excessive speed were likely contributing factors in the fatal collision.
The driver of the Infiniti, 22-year-old Isrrael Suarez-Hernandez of Newton, suffered critical injuries and was airlifted to a nearby trauma center for emergency treatment. Inside the Infiniti were three passengers — an adult and two children — all of whom sustained life-threatening injuries and were rushed to local hospitals. Their current conditions have not yet been released.
Investigators spent several hours on the scene working to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. Settlemyre Bridge Road was closed through the night as crews cleared the wreckage and collected evidence. Officials stated that no charges will be filed in connection with the crash since the at-fault driver, Houser, perished in the incident.
This tragedy marks one of several recent fatal crashes in Catawba County linked to impaired or reckless driving. State troopers continue to emphasize the importance of safe driving habits, reminding motorists that alcohol and speed remain two of the leading causes of deadly collisions across North Carolina.
As the community mourns, residents have expressed heartbreak over the devastating loss of life and the severe injuries sustained by innocent victims. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol urges all drivers to stay alert, drive sober, and make responsible choices behind the wheel — decisions that could mean the difference between life and death.