High School Student Dies as Van Hits Tree

Chereka Williams, 17, was driving a 1991 Toyota minivan along N.C. Highway 96 near the Archer Lodge community around 1 a.m.

Troopers said she lost control of her vehicle on a curve, causing it to run off the road. The minivan hit a tree in some woods, and then then burst into flames.

The vehicle fire burned some brush along the side of the highway. Firefighters responding to the brush fire found Williams still inside the burning van. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Williams attended West Johnston High School, authorities said.

Troopers believe that fatigue played a role in the accident, but said they continue to investigate.