A deadly crash on Interstate 77 in Iredell County Friday evening has left one man dead and three others injured, including two children. The accident occurred near Harmony, when a pickup truck traveling southbound suffered a sudden tire blowout, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Officials say the truck’s rear right tire unexpectedly blew out, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The pickup then veered off the right side of the highway, hit a metal guardrail, overturned, and rolled down a steep embankment next to the road. The violent impact severely damaged the vehicle and led to a tragic outcome for the driver.
The driver, identified as Elmer Adalberto Romero Giron, 38, of Statesville, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities say he died from injuries sustained during the rollover. His death has shocked the local community, as investigators confirm that neither speed nor alcohol played a role in the crash. The tire failure appears to have been the sole contributing factor.
Three other individuals in the truck — one adult and two children — survived the crash. All were transported to local hospitals with injuries. Fortunately, all three are expected to make a full recovery, according to medical staff. Their current conditions have not been officially released, but officials describe their injuries as non-life-threatening.
The accident caused a significant traffic disruption on I-77 South. Emergency crews and investigators worked at the scene for nearly two hours, forcing a temporary closure of the affected stretch of the highway. Traffic was diverted while first responders provided aid, cleared debris, and began the investigation into what led to the fatal incident.
This tragic event serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance, particularly when it comes to tires. Tire blowouts can happen suddenly and cause serious, sometimes fatal, accidents. Highway Patrol officials urge all drivers to check their tires regularly for wear, damage, and proper inflation. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate, but at this time, no charges have been filed, and the crash is considered a tragic accident caused by mechanical failure.
