A fatal collision during severe weather conditions claimed the life of a young woman Friday evening on Interstate 40 west in Catawba County, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Troopers responded to the crash at approximately 7:00 p.m. on August 1, 2025, near the westbound rest area at mile marker 137. The incident involved a 2024 Subaru Ascent and a 2019 Honda HR-V.
The driver of the Honda, 22-year-old Gabriella Elise Cruz of Bryson City, tragically died at the scene as a result of her injuries. Authorities confirmed that the road was wet due to heavy rain at the time of the crash.
The driver of the Subaru, 41-year-old Tracie Lynn Arnold of Apex, and three passengers sustained minor injuries. All were treated at the scene and did not require hospitalization.
Investigators have ruled out impairment as a contributing factor, though they continue to assess the circumstances surrounding the crash. Possible charges are under consideration pending the outcome of the investigation and consultation with the Catawba County District Attorney’s Office.
Interstate 40 westbound was partially closed for roughly two hours while troopers conducted the on-scene investigation.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact the NC Highway Patrol at 828-466-5500 as the investigation remains active.
