Speed and the possible use of alcohol have been listed as contributing factors in a crash which occurred in the 900 block of Vance Street Sunday morning.

Roanoke Rapids police Chief Bobby Martin said the driver of the vehicle, 39-year-old Patrick Phillips of the 800 block of Vance Street, sustained significant injuries in the single-vehicle crash, which occurred shortly before 3 a.m.

Residents in the neighborhood say this is the third serious crash in four months in the 900 block.

Gallery photos contributed

• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
• Click to open image! Click to open image!
•  

Martin said Phillips was traveling south when he struck one vehicle head-on and then struck another before hitting a tree. The vehicle overturned.

Martin said officers continue to investigate the crash as far as the injuries sustained and the charges to be filed. He said charges will likely be filed due to the driver traveling at a speed significant enough to strike two vehicles and a tree. The speed estimate was not immediately available. “We do feel from evidence at the scene alcohol was a contributing factor.”

Martin said the department fields multiple complaints within the city limits on speeders. “We do as much enforcement as we can to slow vehicles down. We understand speed is a true factor in collisions. The public can help by slowing down and paying attention.”

Martin said those with concerns about speeders in specific neighborhoods may call the police department at 252-533-2810 “and we will look into the information as we always do to enforce the speed limits.”