The Martin County, North Carolina, community is mourning the death of 76-year-old John Foriest, a patient who was killed in a single-vehicle crash involving an ambulance on Highway 11 early Sunday morning, September 6, 2026. The crash, which occurred at approximately 2:00 a.m. near Council Road, also injured an on-duty nurse who was in the ambulance at the time of the incident. The driver of the ambulance, 29-year-old Lauren McFadden, has been charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
According to troopers, the East Care Medical Transport ambulance was traveling south on Highway 11 when it ran off the road to the right and struck a ditch culvert. The impact caused the ambulance to flip several times before coming to rest on the highway. The crash was severe, resulting in the death of Foriest, who was being transported at the time. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The on-duty nurse, identified as Emma Pridgen, was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover.
The driver of the ambulance, Lauren McFadden, was not injured in the crash, according to authorities. She has been charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle, a charge that reflects the seriousness of the incident. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and troopers are working to determine the factors that led to the ambulance running off the road. Speed, driver distraction, road conditions, and mechanical issues are all being examined as potential contributing factors.
Foriest was a 76-year-old resident of the Martin County area. His death has left his family, friends, and the broader community in shock. He was being transported by the ambulance at the time of the crash, and the loss of his life under such circumstances has been particularly difficult for those who knew him. His family has been notified of his death and has asked for privacy as they navigate this difficult time.
The crash has also raised questions about the safety of emergency medical transport vehicles and the protocols in place to ensure the safety of patients and medical personnel. Ambulances are designed to transport patients safely, but crashes involving these vehicles can occur, particularly when they are traveling at high speeds or in adverse conditions. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is working to determine the circumstances surrounding this crash and to ensure that any necessary safety measures are put in place to prevent future incidents.
The Martin County community is coming together to support the Foriest family, as well as the nurse and ambulance crew affected by the crash. Local leaders have expressed their condolences and have called for a thorough investigation into the incident. The East Care Medical Transport company has also released a statement expressing their sorrow and their commitment to cooperating with investigators.
Emma Pridgen, the nurse who was injured in the crash, is expected to make a full recovery. Her bravery and dedication to her patient are being recognized by the community, and she is receiving support from her colleagues and loved ones. The crash has highlighted the risks faced by medical professionals who work in emergency transport, and their commitment to caring for patients even in the most difficult circumstances.
The loss of John Foriest is a tragedy that has deeply affected the Martin County community. He was a beloved member of his community, and his death has left a void that cannot be filled. His family and friends will continue to honor his memory, and they will work to ensure that his life is remembered for the love and kindness he brought to others.
Rest in peace, John Foriest. You will be deeply missed, and your memory will never be forgotten. Condolences are extended to his family, his friends, and all who are mourning his passing. May his family find comfort in the love and support of their community, and may the investigation into this tragedy bring answers and justice for John.
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