Clayton woman charged in crash that killed friend

Johnston County authorities have charged a 19-year-old Clayton woman with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle in the Dec. 10, 2011, crash that killed her 17-year-old friend.

Posted 6:44 p.m. Jan 9, 2012 — Updated 6:44 p.m. Jan 9, 2012

CLAYTON, N.C. — Johnston County authorities have charged a 19-year-old Clayton woman with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle in the Dec. 10, 2011, crash that killed her 17-year-old friend.

Kristy Tamayo, of 1005 Dewberry Court, over-corrected after her southbound Honda Civic went off the right side of the 800 block of Amelia Church Road. The Honda crossed the center line and struck an oncoming GMC SUV head-on.

Tania Ritacco, who was a passenger in the Honda, died of her injuries. Relatives said Rittaco and Tamayo were best friends and were on the way home from a Bible study class.

Tamayo is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 15.

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