Driver fled traffic stop on U.S. Highway 401 before his Acura struck Honda Accord on Falls of the Neuse Road
November 24, 2025 | Raleigh, NC
A high-speed chase initiated by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol early Monday resulted in a serious two-vehicle collision, leaving one driver with severe injuries.
Manuel Gibran Zambrano-Cedeno, 27, was arrested after fleeing a stop on U.S. Highway 401 and striking a Honda Accord on Falls of the Neuse Road in Raleigh
What Happened in the Crash?
The incident began around 2:04 a.m. when a trooper attempted to stop a 2016 Acura ILX for speeding on U.S. Highway 401 near Wake Forest Road. The driver, 27-year-old Manuel Gibran Zambrano-Cedeno, initially pulled over but fled as the trooper approached, sparking a pursuit.
- Location: Falls of the Neuse Road, Raleigh, North Carolina
- Vehicles Involved: 2016 Acura ILX, driven by Zambrano-Cedeno, and 2015 Honda Accord
- Injuries: The Honda Accord driver sustained severe injuries and was transported to Wake Medical Center
- Suspect Actions: Zambrano-Cedeno crashed into the Honda, then fled on foot before being apprehended by authorities
- Agency Involved: North Carolina State Highway Patrol
- Status: Potential charges pending, and additional details not yet released
The collision highlights the dangers of fleeing law enforcement, as the Acura struck the Honda during the chase.
Why Do Police Pursuit Crashes Occur?
Traffic pursuits often stem from initial violations like speeding, escalating when drivers fail to comply. Authorities investigate both the motorist's actions and protocol adherence by officers to prevent such outcomes.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), police-involved pursuits contributed to thousands of crashes annually, underscoring the need for swift investigations.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Total Motor Vehicle Injuries (2023) |
2.2 million |
NHTSA |
Police Pursuit Crashes (Annual Average) |
Over 10,000 |
NHTSA |
Common Cause in Pursuits |
Speeding and Evasion |
Federal Highway Administration |
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide guidance on navigating the aftermath of motor vehicle incidents involving pursuits.
“Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and a victim must ensure that evidence is reviewed efficiently,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and national analyst for Newsline. “Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide a client during this difficult time, while vigorously protecting their legal rights and best interests.”
- Independent Investigation: Hiring an attorney ensures a thorough review of crash causes to preserve evidence.
- Victim Rights: Pursuits may entitle injured parties to claims covering medical costs, pain, and emotional distress.
- Protocol Review: Cases examine if law enforcement followed proper chase guidelines.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, added:
“Although no amount of money can make up for a devastating injury, it is important that a victim is made aware of their rights and what they are entitled to by law. The injured victim in this collision may be entitled to an injury claim, and they may seek recovery for damages including medical expenses, future medical care, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.”
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, is experienced in serious auto accidents. She offers free consultations for those in need of help.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).