Jones County, NC (June 18, 2026) - According to local reports and statements from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, two people were killed and another person was seriously injured in a head on crash on U.S.-258 south of NC-41 in Jones County.

Troopers reported that the crash happened Thursday afternoon, with reports placing the time at approximately 3:48 p.m. to 3:50 p.m. Investigators said a northbound pickup truck crossed the center line and collided with a southbound red sedan. After the impact, the sedan left the roadway and overturned.

The two people killed in the crash were identified as Spencer Latinette, 31, and Nikki Latinette, 33, both of Jacksonville. Reports stated that Spencer Latinette was driving the sedan and Nikki Latinette was riding as a front seat passenger. Both died at the scene. A backseat passenger, identified as 26-year-old Megan Dorsinville of Jacksonville, was seriously injured and flown to ECU Health Medical Center.

The driver of the pickup truck was identified by troopers as Melvin Cobb Jr. of Richlands. Another local report described him as a Kinston man. He was taken to UNC Health Lenoir with minor injuries.

Following the investigation, Cobb was charged with two counts of misdemeanor death by vehicle, driving left of center, and driving while license revoked. Troopers also stated that a blood sample was obtained from Cobb under North Carolina implied consent law as part of the continuing investigation.

Court records cited in local reports show Cobb had also been charged with driving while impaired by the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office on May 30 in connection with an incident at 674 W. Corbett Ave. in Jacksonville. That pending case was scheduled for Onslow County District Court on August 26. Authorities had not announced whether additional charges were expected in the Jones County crash investigation.

How Crash Investigations Are Reviewed After Serious Collisions

Serious vehicle accidents often involve a detailed review by law enforcement, medical responders, insurance companies, and others who may need to understand how the collision occurred. After an initial report is made, investigators may continue gathering records, reviewing roadway evidence, speaking with witnesses, and comparing the physical damage to the vehicles involved.

In a car accident involving major injuries or fatalities, evidence gathered at the scene can later help clarify key facts such as vehicle direction, lane position, speed, visibility, and impact points. For people trying to understand what may come next, it can be helpful to start your car accident claim with a lawyer while the available information is still being organized and reviewed.

These reviews often develop over time rather than all at once. Police reports, medical records, insurance communications, and follow up investigation materials may each play a role in explaining the event and helping those affected understand the claims process.

What Families In Jones County May Face After A Serious Crash

After a serious crash, families may be left with medical updates, insurance questions, vehicle issues, and uncertainty about the investigation. Clear communication can make the process easier to follow, especially when several agencies, insurers, or medical providers are involved. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers works with injured people and families to help them understand the practical issues that can follow a collision and what information may be important as a claim is reviewed.

Reviewing Insurance Questions After A Crash In Jones County, North Carolina

Before making decisions after a car accident, many people want to understand how insurance coverage, fault questions, medical bills, and lost income may be evaluated. Reliable information can help families sort through documents and avoid confusion as the investigation and claim process move forward.

For readers who want to learn more about what may apply after a serious collision, it may be useful to understand what support may be available after a car accident before choosing a next step. The goal is to make informed decisions based on the facts, available records, and the needs of those affected.