Gastonia, NC (January 17, 2026) Emergency responders were dispatched following a vehicle crash with reported injuries on the southbound on-ramp near Dallas Highway in Gastonia. The incident was captured in dispatch audio from January 16, during which emergency traffic was activated due to the severity of the situation. Initial reports referenced trauma injuries at the scene, though the extent of injuries has not been confirmed. The crash reportedly occurred near NC-279 and involved at least one vehicle. No additional information about the individuals involved or the number of vehicles was provided in the early reports. Authorities have not yet released further details as the situation remains under review.
Key Details
- Location: Gastonia, NC
- Where: Southbound on-ramp near Dallas Hwy, NC-279
- Type: Crash With Injuries Reported
- Reported: January 16, 2026 at 10:57 PM
- Injuries: Reported
- Responding Agency: Not stated
What We Know So Far
- Emergency traffic was declared on radio following the crash
- Injuries were referenced in the dispatch as trauma-related
- The incident took place near the southbound on-ramp by Dallas Hwy in Gastonia
- Emergency crews were en route during the call
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Exact number of vehicles involved
- Severity and extent of reported injuries
- Whether hospital transport occurred
- If lane closures or traffic delays were implemented
Local Context
Dallas Highway (NC-279) serves as a key connector through Gastonia, and on-ramps in this area often see merging traffic with limited visibility. When crashes occur at entry points like the southbound ramp near NC-279, responders may need to control a tight scene to prevent further incidents while checking for injuries. Although the responding agency was not named, trauma-related injuries mentioned in the dispatch suggest that medics prioritized patient care. As with many traffic-related incidents near Dallas Hwy, additional updates may become available once authorities verify the circumstances.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone needs medical attention.
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with first responders. Leaving before police arrive can create complications later.
- If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
- Monitor how you feel after the crash. Some injuries can appear hours or days later.
FAQ
Q: What should drivers do when approaching an active crash scene?
A: Slow down, move over if possible, and follow directions from emergency personnel to ensure everyone’s safety.
Q: Why do highway crashes often lead to traffic backups?
A: Crashes on or near highways can block lanes or ramps, causing congestion and slowing response times while the scene is secured.
Q: Why might lanes remain blocked after injured people are helped?
A: Responders may need to document the crash, assess road conditions, and clear debris before fully reopening the roadway.