ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — After three motor vehicle collisions this month led to the deaths of two motorcyclists and the hospitalization of another, Sergeant Michael F. Loukos of the N.C. State Highway Patrol shares several safety tips for riders and other motorists.
Deadly data
According to state data, motorcycle fatalities across North Carolina have exceeded 150 a year since 2023.
Statewide motorcycle fatalities
- 2025: 160
- 2024: 193
- 2023: 196
In Western North Carolina, there have been at least 10 motorcycle fatalities across Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties in the last three years, with the majority occurring in Buncombe County.
Buncombe County, Henderson County, Madison County and Transylvania County motorcycle fatalities:
- 2025: 10
- 2024: 10
- 2023: 12
The Asheville area has seen three motorcycle accidents since July 1, 2026, one of which led to the death of Subastion James Samuel Cruz-Galyon, a 20-year-old motorcyclist from Canton, N.C…