Johnston County, NC (June 24, 2026) - Local reports indicate that a 79-year-old Garner woman was killed in a head-on crash late Wednesday morning on McLemore Road near Lassiter Farms Lane in the Willow Springs area of Johnston County.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that the crash happened shortly after 11 a.m., with one report placing the time at about 11:15 a.m. Troopers said a 2013 Chevrolet sedan traveling east on McLemore Road crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a westbound Chevrolet Malibu.

The driver of the Malibu was identified as Patricia Ann Mailile, 79, of Garner. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Reports state that Mailile was wearing a seat belt and was the only person in her vehicle at the time of the crash.

The driver of the eastbound Chevrolet was identified as Jennifer Cameron, 49, of Clayton. She was transported to WakeMed Raleigh with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Troopers reported that Cameron was also wearing a seat belt and was the only occupant of her vehicle.

Following the preliminary investigation, Cameron was charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and driving left of center. Investigators said speed and alcohol were not believed to be contributing factors, while inattention and driving left of center were considered contributing factors. Authorities also said Cameron’s blood would be analyzed to determine whether any additional factors were involved, and her cell phone would be reviewed to determine whether phone use contributed to the crash.

McLemore Road was closed for about two and a half hours while troopers investigated the scene. The roadway reopened shortly before 1:30 p.m., with one report noting a reopening time of 1:26 p.m. The crash remains under investigation.

Reviewing The Facts After A Serious Johnston County Car Accident

After a serious crash is reported, the review process often extends beyond the initial scene response. Investigators may look at vehicle positions, roadway conditions, driver statements, medical information, phone records, and other evidence to better understand how the collision occurred. These steps can take time, especially when one person has died and another has been injured.

In a car accident involving vehicles traveling in opposite directions, investigators often work to piece together the events leading up to impact. Families may later need to understand how official findings, insurance reviews, and available records fit together, which is one reason some people choose to talk to an auto accident attorney as they sort through the process.

Every accident review depends on the specific facts involved. In some cases, charges, medical treatment, crash reconstruction, and insurance evaluations may all move on different timelines. A careful review can help clarify what information is confirmed, what questions remain open, and what steps may matter for those affected.

What Families In Johnston County May Face After A Serious Crash

After the first reports are released, families may still face questions about insurance communication, medical bills, vehicle damage, and the timing of any claim review. Strategic timing can matter because early statements, incomplete records, or unresolved investigations may affect how an insurance company evaluates a case. Rosensteel Fleishman law firm works with people after serious crashes by helping them understand available records, insurance issues, and practical next steps, while keeping the focus on informed decisions rather than pressure.