One cyclist was killed and at least 20 others were injured on Saturday 07 November 2026 in Holly Springs, North Carolina, USA, when a car struck a group ride organised by the Capital Cycling Club.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol says the mass-casualty crash happened shortly after 09:30 local time on Optimist Farm Road, near Talicud Trail, east of Holly Springs. A black Infiniti travelling east reportedly crossed the centre line and struck a group of about 30 riders heading west. The car continued around a bend before ending up in a ditch roughly half a mile away.
Holly Springs Fire Chief LeRoy Smith said seven riders with serious injuries were transported to trauma centres. Others were treated at local hospitals, including WakeMed Raleigh, WakeMed Cary and UNC Health Holly Springs.
Troopers say impairment is suspected. The driver, a 76-year-old man from Apex, was taken into custody, and authorities say charges are pending. Media reports have identified him as Donald Robert Morris-Jones.
Injury totals differ by source. Fire officials and several media outlets cite 20 injured in addition to the fatality, while CNN, citing the fire chief, reported 22. Gran Fondo Daily News will update the figure as officials confirm the total. The victim has not been publicly identified.
The Capital Cycling Club, based in the Apex area, is one of the oldest cycling clubs in the state and welcomes riders of all abilities on its group rides. Its members are the everyday riders who make up the backbone of our sport.
The Highway Patrol is leading the investigation. We extend our sympathies to the victim’s family, the injured riders and the club.
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