Greensboro, NC (February 1, 2026) -Greensboro police are investigating a deadly early-morning crash that occurred on Burlington Rd near Buchanan Church Rd. Officials said the collision happened at approximately 3:45 a.m. in the area of the intersection. Investigators reported that a GMC Acadia was traveling eastbound when it crossed into oncoming traffic and struck a Kia Sorento head-on. The driver of the Kia, 60-year-old Rodney Charles Delorenzo, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the GMC, identified as 39-year-old Karl Earl Cheek, was injured and transported to the hospital for treatment. Authorities stated that Cheek was charged with driving while impaired and traveling left of center, and additional legal action is expected once he is released from the hospital.
Key Details
- Location: Greensboro, NC
- Where: Burlington Rd & Buchanan Church Rd
- Type: Fatal Head-On Crash
- Reported: Not stated
- Injuries: 1 fatality, 1 injured
- Responding Agency: Greensboro Police
What We Know So Far
- The crash occurred around 3:45 a.m. near Burlington Rd and Buchanan Church Rd.
- Police said a GMC Acadia veered into oncoming traffic and struck a Kia Sorento head-on.
- Rodney Charles Delorenzo, 60, was pronounced dead at the scene.
- The GMC driver, Karl Earl Cheek, 39, was injured and taken to the hospital.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The specific timeline of events leading up to the GMC entering the oncoming lane
- Whether any additional contributing factors were identified beyond what has been released
- The current condition of the injured driver
- Whether any other vehicles were affected in the incident area
Local Context
Burlington Rd is a key roadway in Greensboro that connects multiple neighborhoods and carries traffic through the area near Buchanan Church Rd. With the crash occurring around 3:45 a.m., the scene likely unfolded during low-light conditions when visibility can be reduced and drivers may have less time to react to sudden hazards. Investigators said the GMC Acadia was traveling east before crossing into oncoming lanes and colliding head-on with a Kia Sorento at the Burlington Rd and Buchanan Church Rd area. Greensboro police continue reviewing the circumstances as the community mourns the loss of 60-year-old Rodney Charles Delorenzo.
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.
- Follow directions from police or emergency personnel and use caution around emergency vehicles and traffic changes.
- 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: Why are details sometimes limited right after a fatal crash?
A: In serious crashes, investigators must confirm key facts, document evidence, and notify family members before releasing additional information. This process can take time, especially when the collision is complex.
Q: What are common causes of head-on crashes?
A: Head-on crashes often happen when a vehicle crosses the center line due to impairment, distraction, fatigue, or loss of control. These collisions are especially dangerous because of the combined force of impact.
Q: Can an investigation continue after the scene is cleared?
A: Yes. Even after vehicles are removed and traffic resumes, investigators may continue reviewing evidence, speaking with witnesses, and analyzing reports to determine what happened and whether additional charges apply.
