Local News
20-Year-Old Breezy Hernandez Killed in Fiery Head-On Crash on U.S. 421 in Harrells, North Carolina
A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the community of Harrells, North Carolina, after 20-year-old Breezy Hernandez tragically lost her life in a devastating head-on collision on U.S. 421 near River Road.
What began as an ordinary morning ended in an unimaginable loss, leaving family members, friends, and loved ones grieving a young woman whose life was taken far too soon. At just 20 years old, Breezy had so much life ahead of her, with dreams to pursue, memories still waiting to be made, and countless moments she should have had the opportunity to experience.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the collision involved a 1999 Toyota pickup truck driven by Breezy Hernandez and a Freightliner tanker traveling in the opposite direction.
Investigators reported that Breezy was traveling northbound on U.S. 421 when her pickup crossed the centerline and collided head-on with the southbound tanker. The commercial vehicle was carrying methane gas and was driven by 30-year-old Lawa A. Dowdell of Leland, North Carolina.
The impact caused both vehicles to catch fire just off the roadway, creating a dangerous scene that required an emergency response from multiple crews.
Firefighters and hazardous materials (HazMat) personnel responded to the scene to assess the situation, manage the fire, and ensure public safety. Fortunately, the methane gas remained contained and did not ignite.
Due to the severity of the crash and the potential hazards involving the tanker, authorities temporarily closed the roadway while emergency personnel worked to secure the area and complete their response.
Sadly, Breezy Hernandez died as a result of the collision. Despite the emergency response, her life could not be saved.
The tanker driver, Lawa A. Dowdell, was transported to Sampson Regional Hospital with injuries reported to be non-life-threatening.
According to authorities, both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Preliminary information indicated that speed was not believed to be a contributing factor, while possible impairment remained under investigation.
The circumstances surrounding the collision are being examined by authorities.
Beyond the details of the accident, this tragedy represents the loss of a young woman who meant so much to the people around her.
Breezy was only 20 years old. She deserved more time to grow, experience life, follow her dreams, celebrate milestones, and create beautiful memories with her family and friends.
Her sudden passing has left a painful emptiness in the hearts of those who loved her. For her family, the days ahead will be filled with difficult moments, cherished memories, and the challenge of learning to live with a loss that words cannot adequately describe.
No family is ever prepared to receive news that someone they love has died unexpectedly, especially someone so young.
As loved ones come to terms with this heartbreaking loss, thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the tragedy.
May Breezy Hernandez be remembered not simply for the circumstances of her passing, but for the life she lived and the memories she leaves behind.
Rest peacefully, Breezy Hernandez. May your soul find eternal peace, and may your memory continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved you. 🕊️🤍
Sending deepest condolences, heartfelt prayers, and strength to Breezy’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. May they find comfort in one another and in the memories they will forever hold close. 🙏💔
Local News
Nelly Cornell, 25, Killed in I-70 Pursuit-Related Crash in St. Charles County; Driver Faces Multiple Charges
ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Missouri — A tragic pursuit-related crash in St. Charles County claimed the life of 25-year-old Nelly Cornell and left three other people seriously injured early Sunday morning, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Authorities said the fatal collision happened after a police pursuit involving a driver accused of fleeing law enforcement. The crash occurred at the intersection of Natural Bridge Road and Springdale Avenue, where the fleeing vehicle collided with another vehicle carrying Cornell and the other victims.
The driver accused of fleeing, identified as 30-year-old Jahlil Ali Campbell-Williams, is facing multiple charges in connection with the incident, including aggravated fleeing resulting in death, involuntary manslaughter and assault.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident began shortly before 1 a.m. Sunday, when O’Fallon police officers attempted to pursue a vehicle in connection with an alleged felony violation near Drennan Parkway and Interstate 70.
The pursuit continued eastbound along I-70. However, O’Fallon officers later discontinued the chase near Mid-Rivers Mall.
The situation developed further when a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper spotted the same vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed near Cave Springs Road. The trooper attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver reportedly failed to stop, leading to another pursuit.
Authorities reported that at approximately 1:08 a.m., the vehicle exited Interstate 70 onto Natural Bridge Road.
About one minute later, at approximately 1:09 a.m., the vehicle crashed into another vehicle at the intersection of Natural Bridge Road and Springdale Avenue.
The impact resulted in devastating consequences for the occupants of the second vehicle.
Nelly Cornell, 25, was a passenger in the vehicle that was struck and was killed in the collision. Three other occupants of that vehicle suffered serious injuries and were transported to a hospital for medical treatment.
The crash left families and loved ones facing a heartbreaking situation, as one person lost their life and several others were seriously hurt.
The driver accused of fleeing law enforcement was identified as Jahlil Ali Campbell-Williams, 30.
According to authorities, Campbell-Williams faces several charges related to the pursuit and fatal collision, including:
- Aggravated fleeing resulting in death
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Assault
The charges stem from the events leading up to the crash and the resulting injuries and fatality. The case remains subject to the legal process, and the allegations have not been established as proven in court.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and collision. Investigators are working to establish the full sequence of events that led to the crash.
Further details about the injured victims, their conditions and any additional developments have not been provided in the available information.
The death of Nelly Cornell is a heartbreaking loss for his family, friends and loved ones. A sudden fatal crash can leave those closest to a victim struggling with grief and the difficult reality of a life taken far too soon.
As the investigation continues, thoughts are with Cornell’s loved ones and everyone affected by this tragedy. May his family and friends find strength and comfort during this painful time, and may the three injured individuals receive the care and support they need as they recover.