By Mark Price
The Charlotte Observer
GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — A paramedic was killed when an ambulance hauling a patient was slammed from behind on U.S. 74 and flipped over, according to the N.C. State Highway Patrol .
The crash happened around 8 a.m. Monday in Gaston County , as the ambulance was eastbound on U.S. 74 near Interstate 85.
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An investigation has revealed a Dodge Challenger was traveling at a high rate of speed on U.S. 74 when it “rear-ended” the ambulance, causing it to overturn, officials said.
Ashley Moore, 37, of Lawndale , was treating a patient in the back of the ambulance when she was thrown out and suffered fatal injuries, investigators say.
The ambulance driver and patient were not seriously injured, officials said
Moore worked the past nine years for Cleveland County Emergency Medical Services , and served as a paramedic and field training officer, the county said in a news release.
“She exemplified the highest standards of the EMS profession and dedication to our community,” county officials said.
Investigators say the driver of the Dodge Challenger was hospitalized with minor injuries. He was the only occupant of the vehicle.
A cause for the crash remains under investigation, and charges have not been filed, investigators said.
This article, originally published at 1:04 p.m. ET, has been updated with additional information.
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