1 dead, 3 injured in crash

Near FAIRVIEW, N.C. – Youth and speed is often a deadly mix and troopers say that’s what happened in Thursday morning in Union County. A head-on accident has left one student dead, another fighting for his life, and their school emotionally devastated.

Troopers say the collision was caused by Sam Baker, 17, driving too fast into a curve, overcorrecting and then crossing the center line.

"When I heard the impact, I jumped up and looked out my bedroom window. I saw the two vehicles involved,” said an eyewitness who did not want to be identified.

She ran to the aid of the people in the accident.

"It’s bad when you see children involved,” she said. “It's always bad, especially if you have children."

Troopers say Marshall Hinson III, 17, known as Trey, was the passenger in the car driven by Baker. He was not wearing a seatbelt and was killed. Baker continues to fight for his life.

"I didn’t know Sam, but I did know Trey,” said friend Josh Howard. “He was a good dude. We were all wanting to hear the final outcome. Everybody is pretty depressed about it."

“Why did it have to be him? Yesterday we were just talking about life. Today, I can't ever talk to him again,” said friend London Purser.

It took state troopers awhile to notify family members so Piedmont High School officials were not able to tell students that Hinson had died. They didn't find out until after school. Counselors will be available Friday.

"We'll take personal care of each student that needs something done,” said Wanda Little, principal. “I would not be surprised if several of our students have not already gone to the hospital to take care of Sam.

Little said the two students were skipping school prior to the accident, but she quickly added they were good kids, seniors on course to graduate.

“Trey's a good guy. He's the best always cracking up people, always making everyone laugh,” said Purser.

Thursday afternoon, a trooper with Highway Patrol spoke to students about safe driving, lessons they had heard before, but now in tragedy, they hit home.

“It’s different when one of your friends dies over it, it's a lot different,” said Purser.

David and Barbara Croasmun from Matthews were in the other car. As of Thursday evening, both were still listed in critical condition at CMC. Troopers say David suffered a broken leg and Barbara had internal injuries, but both are expected to recover.