A 22-year-old motorcyclist lost his life in a single-vehicle collision on Mountain Valley Church Road at Cora Caudill Road in Wilkes County on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at around 9:57 p.m. Winston Jahleel Poe of North Wilkesboro was identified as the rider.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that he was operating a 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 500 traveling westbound when the motorcycle left the right side of the roadway while approaching a curve.
The motorcycle struck a guardrail and overturned. Poe was ejected over the barrier and landed on the opposite side. Emergency medical crews arrived quickly and transported him to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Wilkes Medical Center. Medical staff attempted to save him, but he later died from the injuries sustained in the crash.
No other vehicles were involved in the incident. The motorcycle sustained heavy damage from the impact with the guardrail. Troopers documented the scene, took measurements, and examined the roadway for factors that may have contributed to the crash, including speed, road surface conditions, and visibility.
The crash has affected the North Wilkesboro community deeply. Friends and family described Poe as a young man with strong local ties who was well known in the area. Many gathered to support each other after learning of his sudden death. The loss has prompted conversations about rural road safety among residents.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officials have not released a final determination on contributing factors. They have urged motorcyclists and other drivers to use caution on rural roads, especially in areas with sharp curves and limited lighting.
The investigation remains active. Troopers are reviewing evidence collected at the scene. A final report will be completed once all findings are analyzed. No additional information has been released at this time.