Three people, including a 6-year-old child, were killed when a wrong-way driver slammed into their vehicle on Interstate 85 just outside Hillsborough early Sunday morning, NC Highway Patrol officials said.
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According to reports, Michael Chandler Kania, of Asheboro, was traveling north in the southbound lanes of I-85 when his Jeep collided with Harris’ auto head-on.
Three people in the Suzuki were killed instantly, including 6-year-old Janiece Smith, of Brooklyn, N.Y., who was riding in the back seat. The driver of the second auto was identified as 49-year-old Felicia Harris of Charlotte. The third victim has not yet been identified.
Kania remains hospitalized at UNC Hospitals, but authorities said his injuries aren’t life-threatening. Kania was taken to the University of North Carolina Hospital. UNC would not release his condition, but he is expected to be released Monday. Kania is charged with DWI, careless and reckless driving, and possession of an open container of an alcoholic beverage.
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Authorities said that they suspect alcohol was involved in the wreck, but the investigation is ongoing and no charges have been filed. Because Kania is only 20 years old, the Alcohol Law Enforcement is also investigating.
