Harnett County, NC (May 20, 2026) – One person died and another was injured early Wednesday morning, May 20, after a single-vehicle crash near Angier in Harnett County. The wreck occurred on Oak Grove Church Road near NC-55.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a Nissan Pathfinder was traveling northbound when it crossed the center line, left the roadway, and struck a mailbox. The driver then overcorrected, causing the SUV to overturn multiple times.
Both occupants were not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle. One person died at the scene, while the other was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Oak Grove Church Road was closed for several hours between Royster Lane and Owens Road before reopening around 5 a.m. Further details had not been released as of Wednesday.
Investigators continue to examine the factors that led to the loss of control. We extend our condolences to the family of the person who died and hope for the recovery of the person injured.
What Often Contributes to Single-Vehicle Rollover Crashes
Single-vehicle rollovers often occur when a driver loses control after leaving the roadway or making a sudden steering correction. Even a brief moment of overcorrection can cause an SUV or similar vehicle to become unstable, especially at higher speeds or on narrow rural roads.
Seat belt use plays a major role in reducing the severity of injuries in these types of crashes. Without restraints, occupants may be thrown from the vehicle during a rollover, which significantly increases risk. Investigators commonly review roadway departure points, tire marks, vehicle damage, and road design to understand how the sequence unfolded. Factors such as speed, visibility, and driver reaction are also examined to help explain why the vehicle left the roadway in the first place.
