A motorcyclist died following a crash with an SUV in Sampson County on Wednesday around 12:06 p.m.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred on NC-55 near Green Path Road. An SUV traveling west attempted to make a U-turn while a motorcycle was heading east behind a pilot vehicle associated with roadway construction.
As the pilot vehicle slowed, the motorcyclist passed it and accelerated, colliding with the SUV. The impact threw the motorcyclist from the motorcycle, resulting in fatal injuries at the scene.
Authorities reported that the SUV driver moved off the roadway after the crash, while the motorcycle came to rest on the right shoulder.
Troopers have not released the identities of those involved, and the investigation is ongoing. Lane closures were implemented as emergency response teams arrived.