ONSLOW, Onslow County, N.C., Nov. 8, 2026 — Two drivers died and a child was injured on Saturday evening, November 7, after a wrong-way crash shut down Highway 24 in both directions, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol said.
Troopers said they got the call shortly after 6:30 p.m. for a two-vehicle, head-on collision near Steam Shovel Road. According to the Highway Patrol, a red pickup truck was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes when it struck a black passenger car head-on in the left westbound lane. A witness had reportedly also called in a red pickup driving the wrong way on Highway 24 before the crash happened.
The crash pushed the truck into the median. The car came to rest on the shoulder of the westbound lanes. Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene.
An 11-year-old child riding in the back seat of the car was hurt in the crash.
The highway remained closed in both directions as troopers worked the scene.
Authorities continue investigating the collision. Our condolences go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives, and we wish the injured child a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Onslow, NC
This fatal crash happened on Highway 24 in Onslow, NC. We cover crashes across Onslow County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Onslow County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are wrong-way crashes usually deadly?
A wrong-way crash usually means a head-on impact between two vehicles moving toward each other at highway speed, so the combined force is far greater than in a typical rear-end or side-impact collision, making serious injury or death more likely.
When do wrong-way crashes tend to happen?
They are more common at night, particularly late evening through early morning hours, when visibility is lower and wrong-way entries onto a highway are less likely to be noticed right away.
What should a driver do if they spot a car heading the wrong way?
Slow down, move to the right lane if possible, and avoid swerving suddenly. Call 911 to report the location and direction of travel so authorities can respond and warn other drivers.
What are common injuries in head-on crashes?
Head-on collisions frequently cause chest, head and leg injuries from the force of impact, along with injuries from flying debris or being thrown against interior surfaces of the vehicle.
