A tragic accident occurred when a 32-year-old woman, Courtney Sanford, lost her life in a head-on collision on a US highway, just moments after posting a Facebook status update and sharing selfies. The incident highlights the dangers of distracted driving, as Sanford’s last Facebook post was made only a minute before the crash was reported to police.
At 8:33 on Thursday morning, Courtney posted on her Facebook page, “The happy song makes me so HAPPY,” expressing her joy. Just one minute later, at 8:34, police were notified of a severe crash on Interstate 85 in North Carolina. Sanford, who was driving alone, crossed the center reservation and collided with a recycling truck. The impact caused her car to catch fire, and the truck was forced off the road. Sanford tragically died in the accident.
According to authorities, there was no evidence of speeding, drug use, or alcohol involvement in the crash. She was simply on her way to work when the collision occurred. It wasn’t until later, when friends reported her online activity, that the connection between the Facebook post and the crash became apparent. Her social media posts, including selfies and status updates, were made at the same time as the crash, revealing that she had been using her phone while driving.
Lt. Chris Weisner, a spokesperson for the High Point Police Department, described the incident as a real-life public service announcement demonstrating the dangers of texting while driving. “In a matter of seconds, a life was over just so she could notify some friends that she was happy. It’s really not worth it,” Weisner said, emphasizing the importance of paying attention while driving.
The crash serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the potential consequences of distracted driving. “Even though it is depressing, it serves as a somber reminder for everyone—you just need to pay attention when driving,” Lt. Weisner added.
The driver of the recycling truck, 73-year-old John Wallace Thompson, was unharmed in the crash. The devastating accident has left Sanford’s loved ones grieving and raised awareness of the dangers of using social media while behind the wheel.
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