Couple Killed in Head-On Crash on U.S. Highway 258
JONES COUNTY, N.C. — Two individuals were killed in a head-on collision on U.S. Highway 258 near N.C. Highway 41 at approximately 4 p.m. on June 18, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Nikki Latinette, 31, and Spencer Latinette lost their lives when their vehicle was struck by a car driven by Melvin Cobb Jr., who crossed the center line. A third occupant from the Latinettes' vehicle sustained serious injuries and was transported to ECU Health Medical Center.
Troopers have charged Cobb with two counts of misdemeanor death by vehicle, driving left of center, and driving while license revoked. He was treated for minor injuries at the scene.
Court records indicate that Cobb had been arrested for driving while impaired just weeks prior, on May 30. Investigators obtained a blood sample from him as part of the ongoing investigation, which remains active.
“The crash happened just three days before Father's Day,” a family member said. The Latinettes are survived by two children, ages 10 and 16. One child has muscular dystrophy and requires ongoing medical support.
Family members described Nikki and Spencer as devoted parents known for their kindness. “Both of them had the biggest hearts you could ever imagine,” a relative stated.
As family members focus on supporting the children through this tragic time, they expressed the profound loss of the couple, who had been married for five years.