Bicyclist Killed in Watauga County Crash, Charges Under Review
WATAUGA COUNTY, N.C. — A bicyclist died after being struck by a pickup truck on US 421 over the weekend, and investigators say charges against the driver are now pending.
Crash Details on US 421
The collision occurred around 8:50 p.m. Saturday near Vanderpool Road, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Authorities said Joseph Butler, 39, was riding an electric bicycle when a 2003 Ford F-250 struck him from behind. Butler was ejected from the bike and suffered critical injuries.
He was taken to a nearby hospital but died the following day. Officials confirmed Butler was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Speed Cited as Key Factor
Highway Patrol investigators said the Ford failed to reduce speed before colliding with the bicycle. Preliminary findings indicate that excessive speed was the contributing factor in the deadly crash.
The driver of the pickup truck was not injured. Troopers closed the roadway for approximately three hours during the investigation.
Charges Pending in Ongoing Case
The case remains under review as the State Highway Patrol consults with the Watauga County District Attorney’s Office. Charges are expected pending completion of the investigation.
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