Wednesday morning, just before noon, Donald N. Matthews, 71, of 162 N. Parkersburg Ave., Garland, was killed after a wreck on US 701 near Kenneth Carter Road.
Matthews, driving a 2008 Dodge SUV attempted to pass a 2001 Chevrolet pickup operated by Joe D. Barnes, 55, of 211 Elwell Road, Garland, but was unable to safely complete this pass due to oncoming traffic.
Matthews sideswiped Barnes’ vehicle, causing him to lose control. Matthews’ SUV ran off the road, struck a ditch and flipped over, causing him to be ejected. Matthews was life flighted to Wake Med but died shortly after his arrival at the hospital.
Trooper M.E. Millen stated that speed was believed to be a factor. Matthews was unrestrained as well.