A West Liberty Volunteer Fire Department firefighter was killed in two-car crash in eastern Rowan County Wednesday.
The North Carolina Highway Patrol identified the firefighter as Michael Goodnight, 55.
Police told WBTV that Goodnight, who was driving a pickup on Gold Knobb Road, crossed a double-yellow line to pass a Mustang that was slowing down to turn left. The two vehicles collided about 2 p.m. in a No Passing Zone.
Goodnight was pronounced dead at the scene, and according to police, he was not wearing a seatbelt.
Two women in the Mustang were extricated by firefighters and transported to the hospital by helicopter, but officials did not release the severity of their injuries.
The department posted the following message on their Facebook page:
"With a heavy heart Chief, Darrin Trexler has officially announced the passing of West Liberty Volunteer Firefighter Michael Goodnight. Firefighter Goodnight has been a firefighter for two years as well as a loving father and husband. Chief Trexler would like to send his thoughts and prayers to the Goodnight family as well as to the family of those involved. The members of West Liberty are also grieving at this time, and the department asks that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers and that you respect the Goodnight family and members of the department."
Police told WSOC-TV that no charges will be filed, because Goodnight was at fault.
Officials did not provide any information on the initial accident call.
