CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WCHS) — UPDATED – 11:35 a.m., 10/16/26
Two North Carolina residents died after their vehicle went off an interstate bridge in Charleston Thursday.
Lori Fernandez, 59, of Shallotte, and Janet Bookout, 58, of Calabash, were involved in the incident reported just after 5 p.m. at the split of Interstate 64 and 77, according to the Charleston Police Department. A third occupant remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Authorities expressed condolences to the victims' families and confirmed the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact CPD's Traffic Division at 304-348-6400.
UPDATED – 9:15 a.m., 10/16/26
Transportation officials confirmed two fatalities in a crash involving an eastbound vehicle at the Interstate 64/77 interchange in Charleston.
Officials said one person died at the scene while another succumbed to injuries at a hospital. A third person is in stable condition. Law enforcement is withholding identities pending family notification.
Investigators continue to assess contributing factors. The West Virginia Department of Transportation reiterated its commitment to road safety amid increasing concern for the interchange area.
UPDATED – 9:45 p.m., 10/15/26
A second individual has died following the Thursday crash at the Interstate 64/77 interchange. One deceased was confirmed at the scene while another died during medical transport.
ORIGINAL STORY
Emergency services reported a fatal wreck at the Interstate 64/77 interchange just after 5 p.m. on Thursday. Two other occupants were hospitalized, with their conditions initially unknown. Authorities are currently withholding the identity of the deceased until family notifications are completed.
For further updates, stay tuned.