Jonathan Toxtle Zacarias killed in wrong-way crash on Interstate 40

Chevrolet Camaro struck Honda Accord head on near Newton Grove

May 09, 2026 | Newton Grove, NC

Three people died, and one driver suffered serious injuries in a wrong-way crash on Interstate 40 in Sampson County early Saturday morning.

What happened in the crash?

Jonathan Toxtle Zacarias, 21, was among three people killed in a wrong-way crash on Interstate 40 near Newton Grove in Sampson County.

According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a Chevrolet Camaro traveled west in the eastbound lanes around 2:41 a.m. The Camaro struck a Honda Accord head-on near Newton Grove.

• Jonathan Toxtle Zacarias, 21, of Fayetteville, drove the Camaro and died at the scene.
• A 20-year-old passenger from Fayetteville also died at the scene.
• A 14-year-old girl riding in the front seat of the Honda Accord died at the scene.
• The Honda driver was airlifted to ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville with serious injuries.

Why do wrong-way crashes happen?

The Federal Highway Administration reports roughly 400 fatalities each year from wrong-way collisions. Driver error remains the leading cause.

Common contributing factors include:

• Impaired driving
• Distraction
• Poor roadway design
• Driver confusion

Crash statistics

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, an independent review helps preserve key evidence beyond the official police report.

“An attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash. Your lawyer has the resources to hire witnesses, conduct driver background checks, locate witnesses to the crash, and review applicable insurance coverage,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal

Key takeaways:

• Preserve evidence quickly after a serious crash
• Review all available insurance coverage
• Protect family legal rights during the investigation

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, emphasises that, pending further investigation, the family of the 14-year-old girl may pursue a wrongful death claim. The Honda driver may also have grounds for a personal injury claim covering medical costs, lost wages, and related damages.

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