Benson, NC (May 22, 2026) - According to local news sources and statements from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a fatal crash was reported Friday afternoon on eastbound I-40 in Johnston County near Benson.

Troopers reported that the crash occurred around 4:13 p.m. near the 328 mile marker, close to the I-95 ramp. Local reports indicated that a Ford Ranger driven by a 17-year-old male juvenile was traveling east in the center lane when the driver attempted to merge into the right lane. Investigators said the pickup struck a Ford SUV traveling beside it in the right lane.

The SUV was driven by Citlali Ahumada Pavon, 25, of Benson. The impact caused the Ford Ranger to lose control, overturn, and come to rest off the roadway. Some reports described the vehicle as stopping in the median after the crash.

A passenger in the pickup, identified as Jarin Brent Cull, 56, of Four Oaks, died from his injuries. Reports stated that Cull was pronounced dead shortly after being removed from the vehicle. The 17-year-old driver of the pickup was transported to WakeMed for treatment of injuries. Pavon sustained injuries described as non-life-threatening.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol said troopers consulted with the Johnston County District Attorney’s Office. Authorities reported that the juvenile driver would face charges of failure to maintain lane control and misdemeanor death by vehicle. Investigators also said a search warrant for a blood sample from the pickup driver was being obtained as part of the ongoing investigation.

The ramp from I-95 southbound to I-40 eastbound was reportedly closed for about 90 minutes while emergency crews and investigators worked at the scene.

What Often Happens After A Serious I-40 Crash Near Benson

After a serious roadway collision is first reported, additional details often develop as investigators, medical providers, and insurance companies review the available records. Early news reports may identify the location, vehicles, injuries, and possible charges, but later reviews can include crash diagrams, witness statements, medical documentation, and vehicle damage findings.

In a car accident involving an overturned vehicle and multiple occupants, clear documentation can help explain how injuries occurred and how recovery progresses over time. Families may later review police reports, medical records, repair estimates, and insurance correspondence while deciding whether information from an auto collision lawyer may help them better understand the process.

Civil and insurance reviews can move forward separately from any traffic charge or criminal proceeding. That means a family may be managing medical care, loss documentation, and insurance questions at the same time investigators are still completing their review.

Practical Issues Families May Face After A Fatal Car Accident

When a crash affects a family, the immediate aftermath can involve more than transportation and insurance paperwork. Parents and caregivers may also need to help children feel secure, maintain routines where possible, and explain sudden changes in a calm, age-appropriate way.

In a car accident, records often help show how injuries and losses have affected daily life, including missed work, medical visits, travel needs, and household responsibilities. Some families may look for rear end car accident claim help or other general claim information when trying to understand how documentation is commonly reviewed.

Household coordination after a crash may include:

  • Tracking medical appointments and treatment instructions
  • Saving insurance letters, bills, and repair records
  • Documenting changes in work schedules or caregiving duties
  • Keeping communication organized among family members
  • Reviewing official reports when they become available

How Families Manage Recovery And Paperwork After A Crash

Families often have to balance emotional recovery with administrative tasks that can feel unfamiliar. While one person may be focused on medical care or grief, another may be handling insurance calls, transportation needs, employment questions, or requests for records.

Keeping documents in one place can make the process easier to understand. Police reports, medical records, photographs, bills, and written communication may each help clarify what happened and how the effects of the crash continued after the scene was cleared.

Moving Forward After A Fatal Car Accident In Benson

When a car accident leads to serious or fatal injuries, families may face several questions at once, including how insurance reviews work, what records matter, and whether a claim can be resolved without a lengthy court process. Many cases are handled through investigation, documentation, and negotiation before any trial becomes necessary.

“People often feel unsure about what matters after a serious crash, and that is completely understandable,” said Corey Rosensteel. “Learning your rights early can help you make decisions based on information instead of pressure.”

Legal Questions Families In Benson May Consider After A Crash

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers helps people understand the legal and insurance issues that can follow a serious car accident. Our firm can review the available information, explain how different accident types may affect the claim process, and help families understand what steps may come next.

Every crash has its own set of facts, including the vehicles involved, the injuries reported, available insurance coverage, and the status of any investigation. For families in Benson and surrounding communities, having a clear explanation of these issues can make the process easier to follow while important records are being gathered.