By: Sandy Actionable June 23, 2026

Troopers Identify Teen Killed in Crash on I-540 E in Wake Co., NC

Accident News

Wake County, NC (June 23, 2026) – On Tuesday, June 23, authorities identified the teen killed in a collision on Interstate 540 in Wake County as Calvin James Cahoon, 13, of Elon.

The fatal accident happened on Saturday morning, June 20, on I-540 East near the Neuse River Bridge. According to reports, a Ford F-350 had a tire blowout, causing the driver to lose control. The truck then sideswiped another vehicle, struck a guardrail, and flipped down an embankment.

Calvin was riding as a passenger and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, 36-year-old Joshua Phillip Lewis, was hurt and has since been charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and unsafe tires.

Following the crash, the Alamance-Burlington School System confirmed Calvin was a rising eighth-grade student at Western Alamance Middle School. His school community remembered him as a talented football player, wrestler, and outstanding student.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the wreck.

We extend our sincere condolences to Calvin’s family, friends, classmates, and loved ones during this difficult time.

How Wrongful Death Claims Work in Wake County, NC

After a fatal crash in Wake County, a wrongful death claim starts with the personal representative of the estate. That person files the claim and may seek funeral costs, lost income, and other damages. Knowing your rights early can help protect your family’s options.

When a blowout causes a driver to lose control, the law asks whether the driver knew the tires were unsafe. Worn or overloaded tires can place legal responsibility on the driver. Unsafe tire charges suggest investigators found prior evidence.

At the same time, criminal charges and a wrongful death claim move separately, so your family can pursue both. A misdemeanor death by vehicle charge shows that investigators found evidence of negligence. Your family can still file a civil claim regardless of the criminal outcome.

After a child is killed, North Carolina gives the estate two years to file a wrongful death claim. Missing that deadline closes the door permanently. Starting early helps preserve evidence, witness accounts, and records tied to the crash.

Because a child’s life represents decades of potential, courts consider the full measure of what was lost. Your family may seek damages for lost companionship, emotional pain, and the child’s future. Each case depends on the specific facts.

While your family grieves, a wrongful death lawyer can investigate the tire failure and determine who may be legally responsible. An attorney can also handle the claim, deal with insurance, and protect your family’s options.

At Brent Adams & Associates, we help families across North Carolina after wrongful death and serious injury crashes on major highways and local roads. Our team works carefully to help your family find answers and understand your legal options.

If your family lost a loved one, we are here to help. Call Brent Adams & Associates at (910) 249-6891 to discuss your case with our team.

Note: This article is based on information gathered from publicly available sources and reports. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, some details may change as additional facts become available. If you believe any part of this content is inaccurate or incomplete, please contact Brent Adams & Associates so it can be reviewed and updated accordingly.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. Reading this article does not establish an attorney-client relationship, nor should it be interpreted as a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured or require legal guidance, you should seek immediate medical care and consult a qualified attorney. Any images used are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual individuals, vehicles, or locations involved in the incident.

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