Gabriella Elise Cruz Obituary, Death; – A driver has died after a crash unfolded on I-40 West in Catawba County Friday evening.
NC State Highway Patrol said it happened around 7 p.m. in heavy rain conditions. Troopers said a 2024 Subaru Ascent was headed west on the Interstate when it collided with a 2019 Honda HR-V traveling in the left lane.
That crash partially shut down the highway for about two hours.
The driver of the Honda was identified as 22-year-old Gabriella Elise Cruz of Bryson City. She died of her injuries at the scene.
The driver of the Ascent and three passengers were treated for minor injuries at the scene.
Troopers said impairment doesn’t appear to be a factor in the crash, and that possible charges are pending the completion of the investigation and consultation with the district attorney.
Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to call NCSHP at (828) 466-5500.
