Danny Wood – A serious traffic collision in Harnett County on Saturday resulted in one fatality and left multiple people injured, prompting an extensive investigation by state authorities. The midday crash unfolded south of the town of Benson, along a stretch of U.S. Highway 301 close to the Johnston County boundary — an area where traffic is often steady and visibility can vary depending on conditions.
Officials with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that the crash happened around early afternoon when two vehicles, a pickup truck and a Tesla sedan, collided head-on. Both vehicles suffered major damage from the impact. The pickup came to rest in the center of the highway, while the Tesla ended up off the side of the road after the collision.
According to investigators, the collision began when the woman driving the Tesla was traveling south on the highway. For reasons still under review, her vehicle crossed over the center line and entered the path of the oncoming pickup truck. The force of the crash caused the pickup to overturn onto its side, trapping the two people inside — a father and son who were traveling together that afternoon.
The passenger in the pickup, identified by authorities as Danny Wood, did not survive the crash. Emergency responders worked at the scene, but he was pronounced deceased shortly afterward. His son, who had been driving the pickup at the time, suffered extremely serious injuries. He was transported to WakeMed, where he remains in critical condition as medical teams continue their efforts to stabilize him.
The woman driving the Tesla sustained what officials described as non-life-threatening injuries. She was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and evaluation. Two young passengers who were traveling in the Tesla were also transported to a hospital. Authorities noted that the children’s injuries did not appear to be severe, and medical teams expect them to recover.
The crash scene extended across multiple lanes, with debris scattered along the roadway and both vehicles left heavily damaged. Traffic in the area was slowed for an extended period as first responders worked to free the trapped occupants, assess injuries, and clear the highway. The incident drew concern from residents and passersby, many of whom were troubled to learn of the fatal outcome.
Investigators from the State Highway Patrol are continuing to piece together the circumstances that led to the collision. They have not yet released the identity of the Tesla driver as they work through the necessary steps of the investigation. Troopers noted that charges are pending, but they will not make a final determination until they complete their review of evidence, witness statements, and any available roadway or vehicle data.
Collisions of this nature often highlight the importance of staying alert and maintaining awareness on busy highways where even a brief lapse in attention can have devastating consequences. State authorities regularly encourage drivers to exercise caution, especially on stretches of highway where opposing lanes are separated only by painted lines rather than physical barriers.
Community members in the region have expressed sorrow over the loss of life and concern for the injured family members who remain hospitalized. Incidents like this tend to resonate deeply in areas where people know one another well and where families often travel the same roads daily.
As the investigation continues, state officials will provide updates when additional verified information becomes available. For now, the community is left mourning the loss of Danny Wood while hoping for the recovery of those still facing serious medical challenges after the crash.
