Ralph Hibbert Obituary, Death News – A tragic accident claimed the life of a 65-year-old dump truck driver from Georgia after he lost control of his vehicle on a steep downhill stretch of Interstate 40 in North Carolina. The crash occurred on the morning of Tuesday, June 17, as the truck descended a six-mile stretch into Old Fort.
According to McDowell County Emergency Services Director Will Kehler, the crash was reported around 10:12 a.m. in the 500 block of Bat Cave Road. Authorities confirmed that no other individuals or vehicles were involved in the incident.
The driver was identified as Ralph Hibbert. Witnesses stated they saw him frantically pumping his brakes but unable to slow the vehicle, indicating brake failure. Old Fort Police Chief Melvin Lytle confirmed that based on multiple witness accounts, Hibbert’s brakes gave out as he sped down the mountain.
Lytle told reporters that Hibbert was traveling at an estimated 75 to 80 miles per hour as he descended I-40 East. Despite several available runaway truck ramps designed for emergencies, Hibbert passed all of them. He exited the interstate at Exit 73 and, unable to stop at the bottom, crashed into a building under construction directly across from the exit’s stop sign.
According to Lytle, Hibbert’s truck went airborne for roughly 85 feet before slamming into the structure, resulting in his death.
John Josey, a witness at a nearby McDonald’s, recalled the horrifying moment. “I heard the brakes and saw smoke. The truck sped past the cars at the stop sign, swerved to avoid them, and launched into the building site across the road.” Josey noted it seemed like Hibbert was doing all he could to avoid hitting others.
Police believe the crash was caused in part by excessive speed entering the downhill stretch. The descent is known for being difficult, especially for heavy trucks. Lytle added that Hibbert was hauling ballast — gravel used for railroad work — and was en route to deliver it for Norfolk Southern, though the railroad company confirmed he was not one of their employees.
Local resident Lee Dubno, who lives near the descent, said such incidents are unfortunately common in the area. “Trucks come down too fast. I’ve seen brakes catch fire, trucks veer into runoff zones, and the smell of burning rubber is frequent,” he said. Dubno emphasized the need for truck drivers to exercise caution, especially on this treacherous part of the highway.
“What happened Tuesday should serve as a warning,” Dubno stated. “Drivers need to slow down. It’s easy to lose track of your speed, but coming down that mountain requires focus and care.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate the crash and are reviewing whether any mechanical issues or decisions contributed to the fatal outcome.