New details released in Friday fatal crash involving four Whiteville High athletes

June 10, 2024

WWAY News,

A view of Sunset Terrace where a family member said the teens' vehicle lost control and careened into a ditch before flipping several times. (Photo: Nate Mauldin/WWAY) — A view of Sunset Terrace where a family member said the teens' vehicle careened into a ditch before flipping several times. (Photo: Nate Mauldin/WWAY)

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — The NC Highway Patrol has released more details in the fatal crash involving four athletes at Whiteville High School.

It happened Friday just before Noon.

The highway patrol says the teenagers were inside a 2009 Cadillac heading north on Sunset Terrace Drive, about three quarters of a mile from Chadbourn Highway, when they tried to pass a car, ran off the road and struck a ditch.

The car overturned several times. Three teens were ejected from the vehicle, while one was partially ejected.

One of the teens, Kaiden Powell, died in the crash. His twin brother Kainen Powell is in critical condition.

Josh Lacewell was airlifted to Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington where his family confirmed he is being treated for serious injuries, but is in stable condition.

Kamari Smith’s family also confirmed he is in the hospital being treated for his injuries.

A moment of silence was held on Saturday during Whiteville High School’s graduation.

The highway patrol is still investigating.

A GoFundMe has been created to help Kaiden Powell’s family with funeral costs.