Passenger killed, driver injured after SUV strikes tree

PERSON COUNTY (WTVD) -- Authorities in Person County are investigating an accident that killed a woman and seriously injured a man the day after Christmas.

The accident happened around 6:20 p.m. on Saturday along NC-49 near High View Church Road in Roxboro.

Authorities said 21-year-old Jacob Atwell of Wilmington was driving a 1994 Jeep SUV on N.C. when he crossed the center line, over-corrected and struck a tree.

Atwell was seriously injured in the accident and taken to Duke Hospital.

A passenger in the SUV, 19-year-old Kayla Fochler of Rougemont, was taken to Person Memorial Hospital where she died from her injuries.

Officials said investigators are conferring with the District Attorney's office regarding possible charges.