Nicola Hines Obituary, Death; Woman ID’d in fatal fiery Wayne County crash.
Nicola Hines Obituary, Death – Authorities have identified the woman who lost her life in a tragic car crash that occurred Monday morning in Wayne County. The incident, which also left her two young children injured, took place on New Hope Road near Old Jason Road.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 11:00 a.m. Investigators say the vehicle, driven by 32-year-old Nicola Hines of La Grange, veered off the right side of the roadway. The car then collided with a tree before bursting into flames. Despite the rapid response of emergency crews, Hines did not survive the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The impact and subsequent fire left the vehicle badly damaged. Inside were Hines’ two children, 3-year-old Alijah Yarabourgh and 10-year-old Alena Player. Emergency responders acted quickly to rescue the children and arranged for them to be airlifted to ECU Health Medical Center for treatment. At the time of reporting, their conditions have not been released, but officials confirmed that both survived the ordeal and are receiving medical care.
Investigators have yet to determine what caused Hines to lose control of her vehicle. No details have been shared about whether road conditions, weather, mechanical issues, or other factors may have played a role. The crash remains under investigation as troopers work to piece together the events leading up to the deadly incident.
The tragic accident has left family, friends, and the Wayne County community in mourning. Hines, described as a devoted mother, was traveling with her children when the unthinkable happened. The loss has been particularly devastating given the ages of her children and the traumatic circumstances of the crash. Community members have already begun offering prayers and support for the family as they face both the grief of losing a loved one and the hope for recovery of the surviving children.
Authorities have not indicated whether any further updates will be provided once the investigation is complete, but they continue to urge drivers to exercise caution on rural roadways like New Hope Road, where single-vehicle crashes can often turn deadly. These types of accidents frequently involve vehicles running off the road, sometimes with little time for drivers to regain control before a collision occurs.
The fire that erupted after the collision added another layer of danger to the situation, making rescue efforts more difficult and increasing the severity of the tragedy. First responders worked quickly to extinguish the flames and provide aid, but unfortunately, Hines could not be saved.
As her children continue treatment at ECU Health Medical Center, the family is expected to release more details regarding their recovery in the coming days. Meanwhile, the Highway Patrol’s investigation will aim to provide answers about what caused the crash.
For now, the Wayne County community is left mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Nicola Hines while rallying together to support her children as they recover from their injuries.
