WASHINGTON COUNTY, N.C. — The community is mourning the tragic loss of 74-year-old Elaine Gregory Bradley, a Corolla woman who was killed Wednesday afternoon in a devastating head-on collision just west of Plymouth. The crash, which also left the driver of a dump truck hospitalized, has brought deep sorrow to loved ones and raised renewed concerns about roadway safety along U.S. Highway 64.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, troopers were called to the scene around 2:50 p.m. on December 10, 2025, after receiving reports of a severe two-vehicle crash outside the Plymouth city limits. When first responders arrived, they found significant damage to both vehicles and immediately began working to provide aid to the injured. Despite their efforts, Bradley was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the impact.
Investigators say preliminary findings show that Bradley was driving a 2016 Nissan passenger vehicle westbound on U.S. 64 when her vehicle crossed the centerline for reasons still under review. Her car then collided head-on with an eastbound 2020 Western Star dump truck that was hauling asphalt at the time. The force of the collision caused extensive damage to both vehicles and left the roadway partially blocked for hours as crews worked to clear debris and begin the investigation.
The dump truck driver, whose name has not yet been released, was seriously injured in the crash. He was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment, and no updates on his condition have been provided. Troopers are continuing to investigate the possibility of medical issues, road conditions, or other factors that may have contributed to Bradley’s vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic.
The sudden and unexpected loss of Elaine Bradley has left her family, friends, and the wider Corolla community shocked and grieving. Loved ones describe Bradley as a warm, caring woman who brought kindness to those around her. Her passing marks a heartbreaking end to an afternoon drive and serves as a somber reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike on the roadway.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge drivers to stay alert and practice caution, especially on busy highways like U.S. 64. For now, the community holds Bradley’s family in its thoughts and prayers as they navigate this painful and unimaginable loss.
