Pender County, North Carolina (March 20, 2026) — An 18-year-old motorist was killed Friday night in a crash involving a tractor-trailer, and the commercial truck driver has since been charged, according to authorities.
Officials identified the victim as Waylon James Mitchell.
The crash occurred at approximately 7:44 p.m. at the intersection of NC-53 and Croomsbridge Road near Burgaw.
Incident Details: According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Mitchell was driving a Honda Civic when he attempted to turn off NC-53 onto Croomsbridge Road.
At the same time, an empty commercial log truck, driven by Jonathan Lloyd Swinson, 30, approached and struck the Civic.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but Mitchell sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead as a result of the collision.
Authorities have not released additional details on the exact positions of the vehicles at the moment of impact, but the collision occurred during the Honda Civic’s turning movement.
Swinson remained at the scene following the crash. Investigators later charged him with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and failure to reduce speed, according to the Highway Patrol.
He was issued a $3,000 unsecured bond and is scheduled to appear in court on May 26 in Pender County.
Investigation: The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the crash. In collisions involving turning vehicles and approaching commercial trucks, investigators typically examine timing, speed, right-of-way, and driver reaction.
A key issue in this case will likely be whether the truck driver was traveling at a safe speed for the conditions and whether there was sufficient time to slow or avoid the collision once the turning vehicle entered the roadway.
Crash reconstruction may include analysis of braking distance, impact location, and vehicle damage, along with any available witness statements and roadway evidence.
Because charges have already been filed, investigators have likely identified specific conduct, such as failure to reduce speed, that they believe contributed to the collision.
Legal Considerations: Crashes involving turning passenger vehicles and commercial trucks often present complex questions regarding right-of-way and driver responsibility.
Even when a vehicle is turning, approaching drivers, including commercial truck operators, have a duty to maintain a safe speed and remain attentive to roadway conditions. When a driver is charged with offenses such as failure to reduce speed, it may indicate that law enforcement believes the crash could have been avoided with proper caution.
Besides criminal proceedings and pending investigation results, the Mitchell family might have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. This could compensate for significant losses, such as companionship, wages, and funeral expenses.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Waylon James Mitchell during this incredibly difficult time.
Source: WECT News