Driver Accused of Hitting North Carolina Cycling Group, Killing One

The cyclists were riding together on Optimist Farm Road, roughly 14 miles southwest of Raleigh, as a car approaching from the opposite direction veered across the divider and struck them, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. The driver continued down the road before leaving it and ending up in a ditch about half a mile from the crash site, authorities said.

Patrick Allen Turner, 63, of Cary, died. First responders found 22 other cyclists injured; seven were taken to trauma centers, while 15 others were hospitalized, Holly Springs Fire Department Chief LeRoy Smith said. The group rides with the Capital Cycling Club.

Donald Robert Morris-Jones, 76, of Apex, was arrested. He faces 19 charges, among them impaired driving, vehicular death, eight hit-and-run counts and seven charges for harming someone with a vehicle. He was scheduled to appear in court on November 9 and was being held on $1 million bond, court records show.

Lynn Osbourne, a club member who often rides with the group, said the crash was a reminder that cyclists can face dangers beyond their control. He said he intends to keep riding while taking precautions. Bike Durham plans a candlelight vigil for Turner and other cyclists on November 15, during its World Day of Remembrance. Another local cycling club canceled its Sunday ride in response to the crash.