Claremont – On Friday, August 1, at approximately 7:00 p.m., the NC State Highway Patrol responded to and investigated a fatal collision in Catawba County on I-40 west near the west-bound rest area (mile marker 137). During heavy rain conditions, a 2024 Subaru Ascent, traveling west on I-40, collided with a 2019 Honda HR-V that was in the left lane.
The driver of the Honda, Gabriella Elise Cruz, 22, of Bryson City, succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
The driver of the Ascent, Tracie Lynn Arnold, 41, of Apex, and three passengers were treated for minor injuries at the scene.
The initial investigation does not indicate impairment to be a contributing factor. Possible charges are pending upon completion of the ongoing investigation and consultation with the Catawba County District Attorney’s Office. During the on-scene investigation, I-40 west was partially closed in the area for approximately 2 hours.
Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed the collision to contact the NC Highway Patrol at 828-466-5500.