Gaston County man killed in accident caused by gas leak

According to the North Carolina Highway Patrol, 60-year-old Charles Edward Van Alst was driving north on Hickory Grove Road around 2:21 p.m. when the accident occurred.

The vehicle veered to the right, entered a ditch and rolled over several times before coming to a stop.

Van Alst was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. No other cars were involved.

Police said speed and alcohol likely contributed to the accident.

The accident damaged a gas line, causing a leak that has been repaired, according to county authorities.