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Driver killed, 2 passengers hurt when car slams into pole on I-77 in Huntersville

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is investigating after a crash on Interstate 77 left one person dead and two others seriously injured early Tuesday.

The single-car crash happened around 2 a.m. on I-77 northbound, just past Stumptown Road in Huntersville.

Troopers said the 2019 Chevrolet Impala drove off the interstate, behind the guard rail, and hit the concrete foundation of a metal pole.

The driver, who has not been identified, died on impact, investigators said.

The two passengers had to be cut out of the crumpled car, according to the Huntersville Fire Department.

Troopers said the survivors were taken to Atrium Health's Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, one in stable condition and the other in critical condition.

Nobody in the car was wearing seatbelts, according to the Highway Patrol.

Police diverted traffic onto the I-77 express lanes while troopers investigated what caused the crash.

No names have been released.

This is an ongoing investigation. Check back with wsoctv.com for more information.