GASTONIA, NC — The driver of a vehicle that crashed in Gastonia and killed an 11-year-old passenger is facing multiple charges including involuntary manslaughter.
The accident happened around 6:09pm Wednesday at Cabin Street and Pinhook Loop Road in Gastonia. There investigators say 24-year-old Jason Pruitt ran off the side of the road, hit a telephone pole, and flipped his car.
There were three passengers in the backseat including an 11-year-old, 15-year-old and 16-year-old. None of their names have been released.
The two teens were taken to the hospital, but the 11-year-old was pronounced dead.
Investigators say Pruitt was going 60mph in a 35 zone, and no one was wearing a seatbelt.
Pruitt has been charged with felony involuntary manslaughter, misdemeanor death by motor vehicle, reckless driving, no operator’s license, and two counts of child abuse.
A GoFundMe account has been started for the victim’s family and can be found at: https://www.gofundme.com/2ercys2k.
