Harrisburg, PA (February 16, 2026) – A soldier from Harrisburg was one of three people killed in a tragic head-on collision early on February 14 on NC-87 near Olivia Rd in Harnett County, North Carolina. Authorities confirmed that 22-year-old Romeo Mason Fleck, a Fort Bragg-based soldier originally from Harrisburg, was driving a Toyota Camry that crossed into oncoming traffic and struck a Chevrolet sedan head-on around 3:36 a.m. Fleck was pronounced dead at the scene.
Also killed in the crash was Charles Jackson, 21, a fellow Fort Bragg soldier riding in the back seat of the Camry, and William T. Underwood, 28, of Sanford, NC, who was driving the Chevrolet. A third soldier riding in the front passenger seat of the Camry survived but was hospitalized with critical injuries. All occupants of the Camry were confirmed to be stationed at Fort Bragg.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash. Sgt. Christopher Knox reported that the Toyota crossed the center line for unknown reasons. No updates have been provided regarding potential contributing factors such as speed or impairment.
Key Details
- Location: NC-87 near Olivia Rd, Harnett County, NC
- Time: February 14 at approximately 3:36 a.m.
- Fatalities: Romeo Mason Fleck (22, Harrisburg, PA), Charles Jackson (21), William Underwood (28)
- Injuries: One passenger is in critical condition
- Vehicles: Toyota Camry (carrying 3 soldiers), Chevrolet sedan
What We Know So Far
- The Toyota Camry crossed into oncoming traffic and struck the Chevrolet head-on.
- All three Camry occupants were soldiers from Fort Bragg.
- The sole survivor remains hospitalized in critical condition.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The reason the Camry veered across the center line.
- The condition of the crash survivor and future recovery outlook.
- Whether impairment or speed was a contributing factor.
Local Context
Though the crash occurred out of state, the tragedy deeply impacts the Harrisburg community. Romeo Fleck was a 2021 graduate of Central Dauphin East High School, where he played on the football team before entering military service. Fatal out-of-state collisions involving Pennsylvania residents are often reported locally as part of regional coverage and community mourning.
What to Do Next
- Remain at the scene and follow instructions from law enforcement.
- Collect and save witness information if you saw the crash or aftermath.
- Keep all medical and incident documentation organized.
- Support loved ones affected by traumatic loss or injury.
FAQ
Q: Why are head-on collisions often fatal?
A: Head-on crashes involve two vehicles colliding directly at high speed, increasing the force of impact and resulting in greater injury risk to all occupants.
Q: What happens when a crash victim is from another state?
A: Local and out-of-state agencies coordinate to notify families, investigate thoroughly, and ensure proper documentation for both legal and family support purposes.
Q: Can military status affect how a crash is investigated?
A: Civilian law enforcement leads investigations, but military command may also conduct internal reviews or offer support when active-duty service members are involved in off-base fatalities.
