NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. — A quiet stretch of road in Wilkes County turned into a scene of tragedy Tuesday night after a motorcycle crash claimed the life of a 22-year-old North Wilkesboro man. The sudden loss has left family, friends, and the local community heartbroken as they try to understand how quickly things went wrong.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol said the crash happened around 9:57 p.m. on May 5, 2026, along Mountain Valley Church Road near Cora Caudill Road. A 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 500 was traveling westbound when it approached a curve in the roadway, according to investigators.
Troopers reported that the motorcycle failed to stay on the road while entering the curve. It ran off the right side, struck a guardrail, and then overturned. The force of the crash caused the rider to be thrown over the barrier, leading to serious injuries.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene and immediately provided medical assistance before transporting the rider to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Wilkes Medical Center. Despite efforts to save him, he later died from his injuries at the hospital. Authorities confirmed the victim as Winston Jahleel Poe, a 22-year-old from North Wilkesboro.
Officials said that impairment is not believed to have been involved in the crash. However, early findings from the investigation suggest that speed played a role. Troopers noted that the motorcycle appeared to be traveling too fast for the curve in the road at the time of the incident.
The crash forced the temporary closure of Mountain Valley Church Road for about an hour as investigators worked at the scene. No other vehicles were involved, and authorities have stated that no charges are expected to be filed. The investigation remains ongoing as officials continue to review the circumstances.
As the community mourns, loved ones are remembering a young man whose life ended far too soon. The tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how quickly a routine ride can turn into a devastating loss, leaving behind grief, unanswered questions, and memories that will not fade.