Simon Santiago

One person is dead and two others were injured after a pickup truck crashed into a tree on Dillard Drive early Monday.

The state Highway Patrol said speed and alcohol were factors in the crash that happened around 3:20 a.m.

Troopers said Simon Santiago, 24, of Wilkesboro, was behind the wheel of the pickup. Santiago and a passenger are being treated at WakeMed. A man riding in the back of the pickup died at the scene.

The vehicle was first involved in a hit-and-run at Dillard Drive and Jones Franklin Road, then traveled down Dillard Drive before hitting what is known as the curve and slamming into a tree, according to troopers.

Officials believe Santiago had been drinking and was trying to escape the prior crash.

"The vehicle took off and headed this way and was definitely driving too fast to make the curve," said 1st Sgt. James Williams of the N.C. Highway Patrol.