Newton Grove, NC (May 09, 2026) - As per local news reporting and statements from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, three people were killed in a head-on collision on I-40 East in Sampson County early Saturday morning.

The crash was reported near exit 343 for U.S.-701. An alert from the North Carolina Department of Transportation indicated that I-40 East was closed around 2:45 a.m. because of the collision. Troopers responded to the scene and found multiple fatalities.

According to the preliminary investigation, a red Chevrolet Camaro was traveling west in the eastbound lanes of I-40 when it collided head-on with a black Honda Accord. Troopers reported that the Camaro was determined to be the at-fault vehicle in the crash.

Authorities identified two people in the Camaro as Jonathan Toxtle Zacarias and Gabriel Toxtle Zacarias, both of Fayetteville. Both were reported among those killed in the collision.

The Honda was occupied by Alexandra Flores and her 14-year-old sister, Beancy Flores. Beancy Flores was pronounced dead at the scene. Alexandra Flores was seriously injured and airlifted to ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville. She later reported having multiple lacerations to her arms and face, along with a leg fracture.

Local reports stated that the sisters had been returning home after spending the day together. Family members described Beancy Flores as the youngest of five children and a loved member of the Mount Olive community.

I-40 East remained closed for several hours after the crash while troopers investigated and crews worked at the scene. The roadway reopened around 7:30 a.m., according to transportation officials. The investigation remains under review by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

What Happens After A Serious Car Accident Is Reported

After a serious crash is reported, the first public details often come from responding agencies, roadway alerts, and early investigative findings. Those initial reports may explain where the collision happened, who was involved, what injuries were confirmed, and whether the roadway was closed while officers reviewed the scene. As more records become available, the review can include crash diagrams, witness statements, medical documentation, vehicle damage, and follow up reports.

In a car accident involving severe injuries or fatalities, early medical evaluations can become an important part of understanding the full impact of the event. Some injuries are identified immediately, while others may become clearer after additional testing or treatment. Families and injured people may later review those records while trying to get legal help for a car accident and better understand how documentation fits into the broader process.

Administrative questions can also continue after the scene is cleared. Insurance companies may request records, investigators may update findings, and families may need to organize information from hospitals, law enforcement, and vehicle damage reports. Clear documentation can help reduce confusion as different parties evaluate what happened and what steps may follow.

How Evidence Can Affect Settlement And Court Decisions

Settlement discussions and litigation follow different paths, even when they involve the same car accident. Negotiations are usually handled through written communication, claim documentation, and exchanges between parties or insurers. Court proceedings are more formal and may involve pleadings, discovery, motions, hearings, and trial preparation if the dispute cannot be resolved earlier.

In a car accident case, evidence gathered at the scene can later help clarify how the crash occurred and what losses may be connected to it. Photographs, roadway conditions, witness accounts, vehicle damage, and medical records can all help frame later discussions, including when someone is reviewing whether an auto accident attorney may assist with the claim process.

Several practical issues may affect whether a dispute settles or moves toward court:

  • The strength and consistency of the available evidence
  • The extent of medical treatment and injury documentation
  • Questions about fault, insurance coverage, and damages
  • Whether both sides agree on the value of the claim
  • The time and expense involved in formal litigation

A settlement may provide a more direct resolution when the parties agree on responsibility and damages. Litigation may become necessary when important facts remain disputed or when the parties cannot reach an agreement through negotiation.

Support After A Newton Grove, North Carolina Car Accident

After a serious car accident, families may be left sorting through medical bills, insurance questions, missed work, funeral related concerns, and uncertainty about what compensation categories may apply. Legal professionals can help explain how damages are commonly reviewed, including medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses that may be connected to the crash. “A serious accident can affect a family’s health, work, and future plans all at once,” said Attorney Corey Rosensteel. “The goal is to help people protect what matters while they make informed decisions.”

Speaking With Rosensteel Fleishman After A Newton Grove Crash

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers assists clients and families by helping them understand how North Carolina law may affect their claims after a serious roadway collision. An initial conversation can help identify practical next steps based on the specific facts, including available records, insurance coverage, medical treatment, and questions about liability.

Our firm works with people who are dealing with the aftermath of car accidents and need clear information about what may come next. For those impacted by the Newton Grove crash, reaching out to Rosensteel Fleishman can provide a grounded review of the situation and help families understand their options without pressure.