Motorcyclist Killed In Collision With SUV

DUNN, N.C. — The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred Wednesday afternoon in northern Sampson County, outside of Dunn.

According to Sgt. Ashley Duff with the Highway Patrol, troopers responded around 12:06 p.m. to a motor vehicle collision on N.C. 55 near Green Path Road.

Preliminary findings indicate a white Hyundai SUV was traveling westbound on N.C. 55 and attempted to make a U-turn. At the same time, a 2017 Ducati motorcycle was traveling eastbound behind a pilot vehicle associated with roadway construction.

Investigators said the pilot vehicle either slowed or stopped in the roadway, prompting the motorcycle rider to pass the pilot vehicle and accelerate. The motorcycle then collided with the Hyundai SUV in the eastbound lane.

The motorcyclist died at the scene.

The crash remains under investigation, and additional information is expected to be released as it becomes available.