A tragic event unfolded in Cumberland County just before midnight this past Saturday, involving a high-speed chase that resulted in a fatal crash. North Carolina State Highway Patrol initiated the pursuit after spotting a 2012 Acura traveling at a speed of 110 miles per hour on NC-87. Despite efforts, the speeding vehicle, driven by 25-year-old Darren Lyndell Obatala Powell, failed to stop, leading to a collision with a Honda Accord at the intersection of North Bragg Boulevard and McKenzie Road. The impact was severe enough to send Powell’s car crashing into a nearby utility pole, subsequently catching fire. Tragically, a passenger in the Honda died at the scene. Both drivers were hospitalized. Powell, who has a prior arrest record, is suspected of driving under the influence at the time of the crash. Charges are pending as the investigation continues.
