Speed a factor in deadly head-on crash on Catawba County road, troopers say

CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — A deadly crash shut down a Catawba County road Tuesday morning.

Around 6 a.m., the North Carolina State Highway Patrol went to Robinson Road, south of Shuford Road. The area is near the Catawba Country Club.

Troopers said in a release a 2013 Ford Focus was traveling south on Robinson Road when it lost control, crossed the centerline, and hit a northbound 1988 Toyota Corolla.

Troopers said a preliminary investigation showed excessive speed from the Ford contributed to the crash.

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The driver of the Ford, Anthoney Wayne Stroupe, of Vale, was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, troopers said. The driver of the Toyota, Jerry Wayne Lail, of Newton, died at the scene. Authorities said Lail was not restrained by a seatbelt.

One of the cars involved went into the woods, investigators said. Then, after that initial crash, a third car rammed into the first collision.

Channel 9′s Dave Faherty could see one car with serious damage and another on its side at the scene.

Robinson Road was closed in both directions while troopers investigated. The initial estimate by highway patrol was that it would be closed for more than five and a half hours.

Troopers will work with the Catawba County District Attorney’s Office concerning any charges.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

(WATCH BELOW: Deadly crash blocks busy Catawba County intersection; troopers investigating)