NEWTON, N.C. — A tragic head-on collision late Saturday evening has claimed the life of 40-year-old Christopher Shea Houser of Newton and left 22-year-old Isrrael Suarez-Hernandez, also of Newton, along with an adult passenger and two children, critically injured. The crash occurred around 9:10 p.m. on October 25, 2025, on Settlemyre Bridge Road near White Oak Drive, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Troopers report that Christopher Shea Houser was driving a 2019 Nissan Altima eastbound when he crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a 2018 Infiniti Q50 driven by Isrrael Suarez-Hernandez. The impact was severe. Houser, who was not wearing a seat belt, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Isrrael Suarez-Hernandez sustained critical injuries. He was transported by medical helicopter to a nearby trauma center for emergency treatment. Inside the Infiniti were one adult passenger and two children, all of whom were also transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Their names have not yet been released, and their conditions are still unknown at this time.
Preliminary findings indicate that speed and impairment were contributing factors in the collision. Authorities will continue to investigate to determine the full circumstances that led to the tragic incident.
For several hours, Settlemyre Bridge Road remained closed as law enforcement and emergency personnel documented the scene, provided medical aid, cleared debris, and secured the roadway. No charges will be filed in this case due to the passing of the at-fault driver.
This devastating crash has left families and the community in mourning. Loved ones are now asking for prayers, support, and privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking loss and wait for updates on the surviving victims.
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of wearing seat belts and the life-threatening risks associated with impaired or reckless driving.
