Pastor Justin Heath Killed in Crash Hours After Delivering Lazarus Sermon

Less than two hours after preaching a revival sermon on Lazarus, Mount Olive pastor Justin Heath was killed in a crash Saturday night near Angier, North Carolina. The collision also injured seven others, including Heath’s wife of 47 years, Lynn. Heath, 67, was driving a van when a Durham police officer ran a red light and collided with his vehicle.

Details of the Fatal Crash

The Harnett County Sheriff’s Office reported that at approximately 9:45 p.m., Durham police officer Joseph King ran a red light at the intersection of NC Highway 210 and Old State Road. King, driving a Honda Civic, crashed into the van operated by Pastor Heath. Authorities confirmed six people were hospitalized following the accident, among them Lynn Heath. Officer King has been charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle, and the Durham Police Department is conducting an internal investigation. The North Carolina State Patrol has stated that King was not impaired at the time of the crash.

Pastor Heath’s Life and Final Sermon

Before becoming a pastor, Justin Heath served as a deputy with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office from 1984 to 1996. On the night of the crash, he delivered a sermon at Cutting Edge Revelational Ministries and Fore Christ Church in Mount Olive focused on the biblical story of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead. Heath urged believers to “ditch the grave clothes” and embrace God’s promise of healing. In his message, he expressed a desire to ask biblical figures about their experiences in Heaven, saying, “I want when I get to Heaven, I want to ask how it feels to go to paradise and get called out.” He specifically mentioned wanting to ask Elijah and Moses about their miraculous experiences.

Community Response and Tributes

News of Pastor Heath’s death has deeply impacted those who knew him. Michael Bacon, a prophetic minister from New York, posted on Facebook honoring Heath as a spiritual father and reflecting on the poignant timing of his final sermon. Bacon wrote, “Your final sermon was on the second night of our revival meetings… Less than an hour later, you would be there in paradise with Lazarus, perhaps asking him what it was like to be called back.” He added, “Most likely praying and interceding for all of us to see the salvation of the Lord.”

Memorial Service and Family

Pastor Heath leaves behind his wife Lynn, two daughters, and multiple grandchildren. A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. on October 24 at Fore Christ Church, located at 770 Northeast Church Road in Mount Olive. The community continues to mourn the loss of a man remembered for his spiritual leadership and dedication.

Pastor Justin Heath’s unexpected death following his heartfelt sermon has left a lasting impression on his congregation and community, marking a tragic end to a night of revival and hope.