A quiet Tuesday night in Wilkes County ended in tragedy after a single-vehicle crash claimed the life of a 35-year-old man from Roaring River. Authorities say the deadly accident happened suddenly and left little chance for survival, adding another heartbreaking loss to the community. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
According to troopers, the accident occurred around 7:07 p.m. on Mathis Mill Road near Berry Lane. A 2014 Ram truck was traveling north when it unexpectedly crossed the center line. The vehicle then left the roadway on the left side, setting off a violent chain of events that would prove fatal.
Investigators said the truck slammed into a tree before overturning. The impact caused severe damage to the vehicle, and emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene. Despite their efforts, the driver had suffered critical injuries that proved unsurvivable.
The driver was identified as Brent Andrew Reynolds, a resident of Roaring River. Troopers confirmed that Reynolds was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities also noted that he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, a factor that may have contributed to the severity of his injuries.
As emergency crews and investigators worked the scene, Mathis Mill Road was shut down for approximately two hours. The closure allowed troopers to carefully document evidence, examine the crash site, and clear debris from the roadway. Drivers in the area were urged to find alternate routes while the investigation was underway.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol said the investigation into the crash is still ongoing, and no additional details have been released at this time. Officials continue to remind drivers about the importance of seatbelt use and staying alert behind the wheel. The tragic death of Brent Andrew Reynolds serves as a painful reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn deadly, leaving loved ones and an entire community grieving a life lost too soon.
