FIRST ON 3: Suspect in fatal crash in Rocky Point released from hospital

PENDER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The Highway Patrol says the suspect in a fatal crash in Rocky Point in December is out of the hospital and made his first appearance in court today.

It happened just before 7:30 p.m. on US 117 south of NC 133 near the New Hanover County line. That’s where Highway Patrol said a Ford pick-up truck crossed the center line hitting a sedan head-on.

Troopers said the truck caught fire after the crash. The truck’s driver, Richard Joseph Constantineau Jr., 48, of Rocky Point survived the crash, but was transported to the UNC Burn Clinic.

Highway Patrol said Ronald Eugene Larson died in the crash, and his passenger, Sandra Larson, was taken to the hospital. Family members said Larson is recovering from a concussion and broken ribs.

Today, Trooper B.D. Unthress said he picked up Constatineau from the hospital and took him to his first appearance in court.

Constantineau pleaded guilty in 2013 to misdemeanor death by vehicle. The plea came three years after he crossed the center line on NC 211 in Brunswick County and killed Stephanie Heath, 23.

Constantineau is facing charges for DWI, felony death by motor vehicle and 2nd degree murder among other things for the crash in Rocky Point.

He is in jail under a $500,000 secured bond.