WAKE FOREST, Wake County, N.C., Oct. 25, 2026 — A driver died at the scene on Sunday, October 25, after a head-on crash on NC-98 West near Stony Hill Road in Wake County. The driver of an SUV struck in the collision suffered only minor injuries.
The sheriff's office said the driver was heading west on NC-98 near Stony Hill Road when they nearly struck a patrol vehicle and another vehicle on the road. The driver then crossed into the opposite lane and collided head-on with a white SUV traveling the other direction. The driver who crossed the center line died at the scene. The SUV driver was treated for minor injuries.
NC-98 was shut down for several hours near Stony Hill Road while deputies worked the crash scene. The road has since reopened to traffic. It remains unclear whether impairment played a role, and deputies have not released the identities of those involved.
The sheriff's office said the crash remains under investigation. No additional details have been released.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the person who died.
More on Crashes in Wake Forest, NC
This fatal crash happened on Stony Hill Road in Wake Forest, NC. We cover crashes across Wake County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Wake County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can head-on collisions be avoided? Staying alert to lane position, slowing down on curves or unfamiliar roads, and never crossing the center line to pass without a clear view ahead are among the most reliable ways drivers stay in their own lane.
Where do head-on crashes typically happen? They're common on two-lane roads without a median, especially where passing zones, curves, or driveways give drivers a reason to briefly enter the oncoming lane.
Does passing contribute to head-on crashes? Yes. Many head-on crashes happen when a driver passes another vehicle, misjudges the gap, or drifts into oncoming traffic without intending to pass at all.
Do median barriers actually help? Physical median barriers that separate opposing lanes of traffic remove the chance of a vehicle crossing into oncoming lanes, which is why highway planners prioritize them on roads with a history of head-on crashes.
What to Do After a Head-On Crash in Wake Forest, NC
If you're involved in a head-on crash, call 911 immediately and move to a safe spot away from traffic if you're able. Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional. Head-on impacts can cause injuries that aren't obvious right away, including concussions or internal injuries. Take photos of the vehicles, the road, and any visible damage if it's safe to do so, and get the contact information of any witnesses nearby. File a report with local law enforcement and follow up with them if you learn new information later. Keep records of any medical visits connected to the crash, since those details can matter later even if the investigation takes time to conclude.
