2 killed after car crashes into tree in Catawba County

Two men died after their car crashed into a tree on Monday afternoon in Catawba County, North Carolina.

The crash took place around 4:30 p.m. on Old Shelby Road near Interstate 40, south of Long View.

A 2004 Lincoln Town Car was moving south on Old Shelby Road when the driver lost control of the car and hit a tree.

The driver identified as Phillip Hudson, 30, of Hickory, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials said he was not using a seatbelt.

His passenger, identified as Alexander Woznick, 31, also of Hickory, was also pronounced dead at the scene.

Woznick was using a seatbelt.

Officials said speed and reckless driving could have been a factor in the crash.