LENOIR COUNTY, N.C. — A driver has been charged with felony death by vehicle and driving while impaired following a fatal motorcycle crash on Jenny Lind Road on September 30.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 6:52 a.m. near Bear Creek Road. Authorities reported that 31-year-old Shay Hill of Pikeville was driving south in a 2003 Ford Focus SVT when the vehicle crossed the centerline and collided with a motorcycle.
The motorcyclist, identified as 70-year-old Keith Manning of La Grange, died at the scene. Hill sustained injuries that were not life-threatening and was transported to UNC Lenoir.
Hill was charged with felony death by vehicle based on allegations that impaired driving was the proximate cause of Manning’s death. He is also facing charges for driving while impaired.
A magistrate set Hill’s bond at $500,000 secured, citing public safety concerns and his prior criminal history, which includes a 2019 conviction for indecent liberties with a child.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. No lane closures were reported following the incident.