Pitt County Sheriff Neil Elks says his office is in mourning, after a department employee died in an early morning crash.

The investigating state trooper says 43-year-old Jimmy Bryant was driving north on Brown Road near Greenville about 3:30 a.m. Sunday.
Bryant's Nissan Altima went through the intersection with Highway 903, without stopping, the trooper said.

Bryant's car then hit a ditch and a tree on the other side of the road, the trooper said.

Bryant was not wearing a seatbelt, and died on the scene, the trooper said.

Bryant was going the speed limit, which is 55 miles-per-hour in that area, the trooper said.
A local medical examiner is investigating to see what could have contributed to the crash.
The sheriff's office says Bryant had been an employee there for 15 years as a micro computer specialist.

Bryant, who was from Robersonville, leaves behind a wife, two daughters, and his parents.

Statement from Sheriff Neil Elks:
"In law enforcement, we unfortunately deal with tragedy all too often, but when it is a colleague, it makes it all the more difficult. The Pitt County Sheriff's Office is deeply saddened. Jimmy's passing is a tragic loss to his family, his friends, and his co-workers. His many years of tireless service and loyalty to the Pitt County Sheriff's Office, and his abundant knowledge will never be forgotten. And his dedication will be greatly missed."