ASKEWVILLE – Tragedy struck here early Friday morning.

A one-vehicle accident on Askewville Road claimed the life of a 16-year-old Bertie County teenager.

According to a report filed by North Carolina State Highway Trooper M.D. Simmons, Mark Eric Baggett Jr. of Aulander was traveling on Askewville Road shortly before 9 a.m. driving a 1994 Ford Ranger.

The report said Baggett looked down to find a cellular phone and apparently crossed the yellow line. He then reportedly snatched the vehicle back across, lost control and rolled the vehicle.

Baggett was transported to Bertie Memorial Hospital where he died from his injuries.

Baggett was a student at Bethel Assembly Christian Academy in Askewville.