GASTONIA, N.C. — A three-car crash in Gastonia on Friday night resulted in the death of one woman and injuries to three others, according to police.
The crash occurred on Hoffman Road near Pine Creek, involving a white Challenger that crossed the center line and collided with a black SUV.
Police reported that the driver of the Challenger, 36-year-old Porsche Mason, was speeding at the time of the crash.
Bystanders at the scene attempted to assist by using fire extinguishers to put out flames engulfing the Challenger.
“The sound was like something I’ve never heard before, and we have had plenty of wrecks here, but that one was the worst,” Guthrie said.
They also used hammers to shatter windows in an effort to rescue those trapped inside the vehicles.
A woman and two minors were in the SUV, and the woman and one of the children remain hospitalized. Witnesses noted that the Challenger and another car were seen traveling at high speeds just before the incident, though police have not confirmed if racing was involved.
Resident Peter Tran said the force of the crash rocked his brick house.
“A little bit of shake,” he said. “We (felt) it.”
The tragic accident highlights the dangers of speeding and the heroic efforts of bystanders who attempted to help those involved.
“If any house or businesses along Hoffman Road will just check their cameras and see if they captured any part of this incident, that would be greatly appreciative, or if anyone witnessed it, reach out to us,” said Sgt. Dan Lane, Gastonia Police Department. “That would be helpful as well.”
“It was horrific and heartbreaking,” Guthrie said.
VIDEO: 1 dead, 3 hospitalized in multi-vehicle crash in Gastonia, police say
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