Princeton, NC (October 2, 2025) – A serious collision with a tractor-trailer in Johnston County left one man critically injured Thursday afternoon.
Accident Details: The collision occurred shortly after 1:00 p.m. when a westbound 2024 Kenworth tractor-trailer carrying livestock entered the intersection against a red light and struck a 2021 Kia sedan that was traveling through on a green signal.
The impact caused the sedan, driven by 78-year-old Golden Gray Pierce of Princeton, to overturn before coming to rest on the highway shoulder. Pierce sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to Wake Medical Center in Raleigh. The semi-truck, operated by 22-year-old Erick Jamal Smith of Kenansville, traveled several hundred feet further before coming to a stop.
The livestock-hauling trailer was carrying hogs, and officials confirmed that two animals died in the crash.
Investigation: State troopers cited Smith at the scene for failing to stop at a red light and for operating a vehicle with a revoked license (Class A and C). Authorities noted that speed and impairment were not believed to be contributing factors, but said driver inattention is believed to have played a role.
A post-crash inspection of the Kenworth is underway.
Investigators will analyze the truck’s electronic logging device and black box for detailed data on speed, braking, acceleration, and steering in the critical seconds leading up to the impact. This information can reveal whether the driver attempted to stop, how quickly braking was applied, and whether evasive maneuvers were made.
Roadway evidence, including skid marks, debris distribution, fluid spills, and the final resting positions of the vehicles, will help create a timeline of events and show the angle and force of the collision. Witness interviews and any available traffic camera footage from the intersection may also provide clarity.
Legal Considerations: Collisions involving commercial trucks are often complex due to the severe damage they can cause and the multiple parties that may be potentially responsible.
Running a red light and operating a vehicle with a revoked license violate fundamental traffic safety laws, endangering others on the road. If investigators confirm that the truck driver’s actions caused the crash, the injured party may have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim.
Potential compensation in such cases can cover emergency care, hospitalization, long-term rehabilitation, lost income from time away from work, and damages for pain and suffering.
My thoughts are with Golden Gray Pierce and his family, and I wish him a fast recovery.
Source: The Johnston County Report