Johnston County, NC (May 24, 2026) – One person was killed following an overnight crash involving a pickup truck and an SUV on Interstate 40 in Johnston County. The accident happened on Friday, May 22.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol stated that the collision occurred when a Ford pickup traveling eastbound in the center lane attempted to merge right and struck a Ford SUV traveling alongside it. The impact caused the pickup to leave the roadway and overturn.
A passenger in the pickup, identified as 56-year-old Jarin Brent Cull of Four Oaks, died from his injuries. The SUV driver, a 25-year-old woman from Benson, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The teenage driver of the pickup was taken to WakeMed for treatment.
Troopers said they are consulting with the Johnston County District Attorney’s Office regarding potential charges related to lane control and a misdemeanor death by motor vehicle. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Jarin Brent Cull and hope for recovery for those injured.
Why Overnight Interstate Crashes Can Turn Severe Quickly
Overnight highway travel can be particularly risky due to reduced visibility and driver fatigue. Even small steering errors or delayed reactions during lane changes can lead to serious multi-vehicle outcomes.
Investigators typically examine lane positioning, speed, and driver behavior leading up to the impact. On multi-lane interstates, vehicles traveling side-by-side may have limited time to react when one begins to merge unexpectedly.
When a vehicle leaves the roadway at highway speed, rollover crashes can occur quickly and increase the severity of injuries. Evidence such as skid marks, lane drift patterns, and vehicle damage helps reconstruct the sequence of events.
