Garland, N.C. — Two men were killed in a single-vehicle accident on NC-411 east of Garland on December 13, 2025. The crash occurred shortly after 6:30 p.m. when a 2006 Toyota Sequoia traveling at high speed left the roadway. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol described the wreck as among the most severe of the year.
Authorities identified the driver as Marcedo Allen McNeil, 33, of Stedman. Investigators say the SUV ran off the right side of the road before McNeil overcorrected, sending the vehicle across the centerline. The Sequoia struck a ditch, hit a utility pole that brought down power lines, and then collided with a tree. The vehicle caught fire immediately after impact.
The passenger, Reginald K. Howard, 39, of Harrells, also died in the blaze. Emergency crews arriving at the scene found the SUV fully engulfed in flames, making rescue attempts impossible. Due to the severity of the crash, investigators could not determine whether seat belts were in use.
Residents in the area reported hearing the sound of a revving engine followed by silence. Garland Fire & Rescue assisted at the scene and extended condolences to the victims’ families. The crash caused temporary power outages in the rural community.
The Highway Patrol continues to investigate, citing excessive speed as the primary factor. No other vehicles were involved. Officials have urged drivers to observe posted speed limits to prevent similar tragedies.
At present, no public information is available regarding the victims’ education, careers, or personal lives. Both communities of Stedman and Harrells are mourning the sudden loss of two residents.
