The one-vehicle accident occurred at approximately 9:45 a.m. at a Hardee’s restaurant in the town of Wilson, about 40 miles east of the state capital, Raleigh. The Lincoln Aviator struck brothers Christopher Ruffin, 58, and Clay Ruffin, 62, both of Wilson, according to a police news release. Christopher Ruffin was pronounced dead at the scene, while his brother died at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville. Photos from the scene showed the silver SUV appeared to have gone through the front windows, coming to rest inside the dining room over broken glass and window frames. Another customer was treated by emergency medical personnel but did not go to the hospital, said police Sgt. Eric McInerney. Police identified the driver as Jesse Lawrence, 78, of Wilson, who was treated at Wilson Medical Center and released. The investigation was still ongoing, but police said they did not believe the crash was medical or disability related. No charges had been announced as of late Sunday afternoon.
