FIRST ON 3: Driver involved in deadly accident has lengthy legal history

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The driver responsible for yesterday’s fatal accident in Brunswick County has an extensive driving record and may have been on drugs at the time of the accident.

Highway Patrol says two pick-up trucks hit head-on just before 4 p.m. Thursday. 42-year-old Richard Constantineau of Rocky Point crossed the center line on Highway 211. The driver of the other truck, 23-year-old Stephanie Heath, died at the scene. Constantineau was airlifted to the hospital.

Constantineau has an extensive record of reckless driving. He has been charged five times. His offenses also include a hit and run and failure to reduce speed. Constantineau has also been charged with fraudulently attempting to obtain a controlled substance, but all of those charges were dismissed.