Sampson County, NC (May 15, 2026) - Based on reports from local authorities and local news sources, one person died and three others were injured after a single-vehicle crash on I-40 in Sampson County on Friday afternoon.

The crash was reported at about 5:02 p.m. on eastbound I-40 near mile marker 358, close to NC-24. Authorities said a 2007 Toyota Yaris was traveling east when its right rear tire failed or separated. After the tire failure, the vehicle went out of control, left the roadway to the left, and struck a cable guardrail.

Investigators reported that the impact caused the Toyota to overturn. The vehicle then crossed into the westbound lanes of I-40 before coming to rest facing west. Traffic on I-40 was temporarily shut down while emergency crews and investigators responded, but all lanes later reopened.

The driver was identified as Brian Hugo Arana, 19, of Angier. He was transported to ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, which was also referred to in some reports as Vidant Medical Center. The front-seat passenger was identified as Alex Francisco Cueller Castro, 20, who was taken to WakeMed in Raleigh. Authorities reported that both front-seat occupants were wearing seat belts.

Two backseat passengers were ejected during the rollover. One of them, Christian Castro, 17, of Spring Lake, died after being transported to ECU Health Medical Center on May 15. The other backseat passenger was identified as Jonathan Mcgee, 17, of Fuquay-Varina, and was taken to Novant Health Hospital in Wilmington for treatment.

Officials reported that three people were injured in addition to the fatality. No further condition updates were available in the provided reports. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continued reviewing the crash, and local reports noted that the fatal incident was among several deadly crashes reported on Sampson County roads during the same week.

Understanding How Serious Car Accident Reviews Move Forward

Traffic crashes often require more review than the first reports can provide. After a serious collision, investigators may look at vehicle damage, roadway conditions, tire condition, seat belt use, medical records, and witness information to better understand what happened before and after impact.

In a car accident, insurance policies may contain provisions that affect how claims are reviewed, including coverage limits, notice requirements, and documentation rules. A car accident attorney consultation may help someone understand how those issues can fit into the larger claim process when injuries, hospital treatment, or a fatality are involved.

Reporting timelines can also matter because different records may become available at different stages. Crash reports, hospital documentation, vehicle inspections, and insurance communications may each play a role in how responsibility, damages, and next steps are evaluated.

Support After A Sampson County Car Accident

After a serious crash, families may need to sort through hospital records, insurance questions, repair information, and official reports while also dealing with the personal impact of the incident. Attorneys can help prepare clients for important conversations with insurance companies, explain what documents may be needed, and outline what to expect if a claim review or legal proceeding becomes necessary.

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers works with people who are facing questions after serious crashes in North Carolina. Our firm focuses on helping clients understand the process, organize key records, and make informed decisions about what may come next after a car accident.