Lana Hatoum Obituary, Death News – A woman from New York lost her life in a single-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning near an off-ramp on Interstate 40 in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the fatal incident occurred around 5:03 a.m. on July 15, near the eastbound I-40 exit leading to Gordon Road.
Troopers responding to the scene discovered that a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee had veered off the roadway while attempting to exit the interstate. The SUV was traveling eastbound on I-40 when it began exiting but lost control on the ramp. Authorities reported that the vehicle ran off the left side of the off-ramp, then crashed into several trees. After striking the trees, the Jeep overturned and quickly became engulfed in flames.
The sole occupant of the vehicle, identified as 38-year-old Lana Hatoum from Westhampton, New York, was pronounced dead at the scene. No other passengers were inside the SUV, and no other vehicles were involved in the crash.
Emergency personnel arrived on the scene and attempted to contain the fire, but Hatoum had already succumbed to her injuries by the time responders reached her. Due to the severity of the crash and fire damage, the vehicle sustained significant destruction, complicating the immediate investigation into what may have caused the accident.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether speed, driver fatigue, or any mechanical issues may have contributed to the incident. At this point, no other vehicles or individuals are believed to be involved, and no foul play is suspected.
The fatal crash led to temporary closures or slowdowns in the area as emergency crews responded and investigators worked to clear the scene and collect evidence. The ramp was reopened after several hours.
Hatoum’s death marks another tragic reminder of the risks associated with vehicle crashes, particularly in early morning hours when visibility and reaction time may be affected by fatigue or other factors. Law enforcement officials continue to urge drivers to use extra caution, especially when navigating highway exits, which can involve sharp curves or reduced traction.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol has not yet released any additional information and has not confirmed whether toxicology tests will be performed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Lana Hatoum was a resident of Westhampton, located on Long Island in New York. No further personal details have been made public, and authorities have not stated whether her family has been notified or made any public comment.
Investigators are asking any witnesses or drivers who may have seen the vehicle prior to the crash or were in the area around the time of the incident to contact the North Carolina State Highway Patrol with any relevant information that might help clarify the events leading up to the accident.
