WILKES COUNTY, N.C. — A tragic off-road accident in Wilkes County has left one man dead and a juvenile injured following a dirt bike collision on Ruritan Road near Ruritan Club Road, officials confirmed Saturday.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when 32-year-old Charles Blevins of Roaring River lost control of his dirt bike while traveling northbound. His bike collided with a 2007 Suzuki dirt bike being operated by a juvenile rider.
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The violent impact ejected both riders from their bikes. Authorities noted that Blevins was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene due to severe injuries. The juvenile sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Investigators have cited careless and reckless driving as a contributing factor in the incident. Ruritan Road, often used by local off-road enthusiasts, was shut down for approximately two hours as troopers conducted a thorough investigation.
The tragic incident has reignited concerns over dirt bike safety in rural areas, especially among younger and less experienced riders.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation and is urging all riders to wear helmets and protective gear and to operate dirt bikes responsibly to prevent further tragedies.
Charles Blevins is remembered by loved ones as a passionate rider and a Roaring River native whose life ended far too soon.