Two pedestrians were struck and killed on Julian R. Allsbrook Highway at Premier Boulevard early this morning, according to the Roanoke Rapids Police Department.

Chief Bobby Martin said this morning the names of the deceased, who were both 31 and not from the area, are being withheld until the notification of next of kin.The collision occurred near Waffle House.

Martin said the two who died were part of a group of eight who were crossing the highway to apparently go back to a motel room shortly before 1 a.m.

Martin said initial investigation shows the two who died apparently did not yield to oncoming traffic while the remainder of their party did.

The driver was not injured and as of this report no charges have been filed. Investigation of the case continues.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol assisted.