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Teenager charged in fatal Wake County crash

Authorities said a motorcyclist was killed in a four vehicle crash Thursday night in Wake County at the intersection of N.C. Highway 42 and Johnny Baker Road.

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WAKE COUNTY, N.C. — Authorities said a motorcyclist was killed in a five-vehicle crash Thursday night in Wake County at the intersection of N.C. Highway 42 and Johnny Baker Road.

The crash included four passenger vehicles and a motorcycle, according to officials.

According to the highway patrol, a vehicle driven by Makayla Horton, 16, rear-ended a second vehicle when Horton failed to reduce speed. The vehicle that was rear-ended then pushed into the opposite lane, colliding with the motorcycle and another vehicle.

Horton has been charged with failure to reduce speed and misdemeanor death by motor vehicle.

Two people—including the motorcyclist—were transported to WakeMed in Raleigh. The other two victims were taken to WakeMed in Garner.

The motorcyclist was identified Friday as Michael Shane Thatcher, 27, of 523 Hilliard Road in Fuquay Varina.

Authorities said the second victim transported to WakeMed in Raleigh was identified as Arnold Murray. He was released from the hospital and is recovering at his home in Wilmington.

Neighbors said the intersection has too many close calls and would like to see the speed limit reduced or a turn lane installed.

“We will tap our breaks several times to signal people that we are stopping,” Betsy Barbeau said. “Other people don’t even use their signals. It’s very hazardous.”

Highway 42 was closed for about two hours before state troopers cleared the scene.

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