OLD FORT, NC — The tight-knit trucking community and residents of Old Fort are grieving the loss of Ralph Hibbert, a seasoned truck operator who died early Thursday morning in a devastating crash near an interstate service area.
According to local authorities, Hibbert’s commercial vehicle experienced a critical mechanical failure during what was meant to be a routine stop. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud metallic noise followed by smoke moments before the truck veered off the roadway and slammed into a barrier. Despite the swift arrival of emergency personnel, Hibbert was pronounced dead at the scene.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
Preliminary investigations point to a potential malfunction in the vehicle’s braking or steering systems, which may have caused the loss of control. A full investigation is underway, with officials reviewing the vehicle’s maintenance history and manufacturer compliance records. The incident has sparked renewed calls for more rigorous safety inspections, particularly for aging fleet vehicles.
Ralph Hibbert was more than just a driver. With over three decades behind the wheel, he was known as a mentor, a steady presence in the logistics world, and a man deeply committed to safety and professionalism. Fellow drivers and industry colleagues have remembered him for his mechanical expertise, calm demeanor, and willingness to support younger operators entering the field.
“He was the kind of person you could count on in any situation—on or off the road,” said one longtime coworker. “He was the heart of our team.”
Hibbert is survived by his wife, three children, and several grandchildren. His family, heartbroken by the sudden loss, has requested privacy as they begin the difficult process of grieving and making final arrangements.
A memorial service is expected to be held in Old Fort in the coming days, offering friends, family, and the trucking community a chance to honor a life spent in service, hard work, and mentorship.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. Anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.