Raleigh driver killed in Atlantic Avenue crash was street racing, police say

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Street racing led to a deadly crash that closed Atlantic Avenue on Tuesday morning from Highwoods Boulevard to Six Forks Road, Raleigh Police said.

Raleigh police said one driver died.

The three-car crash took place just inside Interstate 440 before the Bojangles on Atlantic Avenue.

Police said it happened just after 4:20 a.m. The investigation showed that a 2019 Mercedes Benz E 300 was racing a 2020 Chevrolet Camaro on Atlantic Avenue approaching Six Forks Road.

The Mercedes driver lost control and veered into the oncoming traffic and struck a 2009 Chevrolet Traverse head-on. The Camaro also veered into the oncoming lanes, left the roadway, and collided with a tree. The driver of the Camaro fled the scene.

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The driver of the Mercedes, William Ortiz, 33, died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

The woman driving the Traverse and her passenger, a child, were both seriously injured and taken to a hospital.

The crash remains under investigation.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to visit CrimeStoppers for anonymous reporting options or call (919) 996-1193.

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