July 14 Update:
The driver from the fatal collision in Harnett County has been identified:
Kody Ray Johnson
, 22, of 4837 Lemon Springs Road, Sanford.
Attention All News Editors/Producers:
A preliminary investigation has revealed on Sunday, July 12, at 10:39 p.m. the State Highway Patrol responded to a single vehicle collision on Simon Road near Buck Road in Johnston County.
A 1989 Ford Mustang operated by Jimmy Pearce II, 37, of 11557 (B) Hwy 39, Zebulon, was traveling west within the westbound lane of Simon Road. Another unknown type passenger vehicle was traveling west within the eastbound lane of Simon Road. Authorities believe the two vehicles were involved in a pre-arranged speed competition.
Pearce lost control of his vehicle, traveled onto the westbound shoulder of Simon Road and struck several pedestrians who were observing the speed competition. After impact with the pedestrians, Pearce’s vehicle continued traveling west and struck a tree. The driver of the second vehicle, whose identity is unknown at this time, fled the scene.
Pearce received minor injuries as a result of the collision and was treated at the scene by emergency personnel. He was taken into custody by the State Highway Patrol and has been charged with four counts of 2
nd
degree murder and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. Pearce has been incarcerated in the Johnston County Jail.
The pedestrians who were struck by Mr. Pearce’s vehicle are identified as follows:
-
Undra Montrell Taybron
, 40, of 4101 Cyress Dr Apt. B Wilson, died at the scene of the collision and was transported to Wake Medical Center. -
Garland Earp
, 39, (unknown address) died at the scene of the collision and was transported to Wake Med. -
Carlton Ray Brooks
, 42, (unknown address) died at the scene of the collision and was transported to Wake Med. -
Arrington Earp
, 23 (Unknown Address) -
Roncellis Marshall
, 44, of 3829 North Browntown Road, Battleboro, received serious injuries as a result of the collision and was transported to Wake Med. -
Larry Deans
, 43, of 11239 Davis Worrell Road, Bailey, received serious injuries as a result of the collision and was transported to Wake Med. -
Ida Mae Rapa
, 42, of 902 River Road, Selma,received critical injuries as a result of the collision and was transported to Wake Med.
The SBI also is assisting in investigating this case. Special agents are conducting interviews, helping follow any leads and they assisted with the crime scene.
Anyone who can provide information on the driver of the second vehicle involved or the unidentified pedestrians at the scene are requested to contact the State Highway Patrol by calling 1-800-662-7956.