New Bern Man Dies in Tragic Motorcycle Accident on US 17

A devastating motorcycle accident on Tuesday afternoon has claimed the life of a New Bern man. The incident, which occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m., took place on US 17 North, near exit 417 A. The victim has been identified as 41-year-old Kelly Staples, whose sudden death has left the local community in shock.

According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Staples was riding his motorcycle northbound when he lost control of the vehicle. Officials reported that Staples collided with the concrete barrier of the bridge, causing a violent impact. The collision resulted in Staples being thrown from his motorcycle, tragically sealing his fate.

After being ejected from the bike, Staples landed on the shoulder of Howell Road, which lies beneath the bridge where the crash occurred. Despite the rapid response from emergency services, Staples was pronounced dead at the scene. The tragic loss has raised concerns over road safety and motorcycle accidents in the area.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the accident, though the exact cause remains unclear. Investigators are working to gather more information and determine whether any external factors contributed to the crash. No other vehicles were involved, and no witnesses have yet come forward with additional details.

The tragic incident has prompted discussions about the risks associated with motorcycle riding, particularly on high-speed roads like US 17. Local residents have expressed their condolences and raised awareness about the need for heightened caution while riding, especially during busy traffic hours. Motorcycles, while thrilling to ride, can be dangerous without proper safety measures in place.

As the investigation continues, updates will be provided to the public. In the meantime, the community mourns the loss of Kelly Staples and urges fellow riders to exercise extra care on the road. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of safety, especially when operating vehicles as vulnerable as motorcycles.