Troopers said the deadly crash occurred Tuesday night, May 12, 2026, at approximately 10:31 p.m. along NC 105 near the Avery County line west of Boone. Emergency responders rushed to the area after receiving reports of a serious head-on collision involving two pickup trucks. Authorities said the impact caused catastrophic damage to both vehicles and led to a large emergency response at the scene.

According to investigators, a 2017 Ram truck driven by 18-year-old Alex Gil Hernandez of Zionville was traveling southbound when it crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a 2019 Ram truck driven by Buchanan. Troopers said the violent crash left both vehicles heavily damaged and forced authorities to shut down portions of the roadway while emergency crews worked at the scene.

Daylen Buchanan suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. His heartbreaking death has left loved ones devastated as they struggle to process the loss of someone described as young and full of life. Friends and family members throughout Bakersville are mourning a life cut tragically short, while community members continue offering prayers and support to those closest to him during this painful time.

Authorities said Hernandez sustained minor injuries in the collision and was transported to Watauga Medical Center for treatment. Following the investigation, officials charged Hernandez with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and reckless driving in connection with the crash. Investigators stated that neither speed nor impairment are believed to have been contributing factors, though the exact reason the vehicle crossed the centerline remains under investigation.

NC 105 remained closed for several hours overnight as troopers documented evidence, reconstructed the scene, and crews cleared wreckage from the roadway. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues actively investigating the fatal crash as the community mourns the tragic loss of Daylen Buchanan and seeks answers surrounding the devastating collision.