Gaston County Father Killed Outside Home; Family Seeks Justice in Hit-and-Run
Rhyne Linker Obituary, Death – The Gaston County community is mourning the loss of 34-year-old Rhyne Linker, a beloved father, husband, and son, who was tragically killed in front of his own home on the evening of November 18th. The incident occurred on Trinity Avenue when Linker was fatally struck by a vehicle while standing at the curb, engaged in the simple, selfless act of working on a friend’s car.
The accident was sudden and horrific. The striking vehicle hit Linker with force, dragging his body underneath it as it veered out of control and ultimately careened into a neighboring home. The first member of the family to witness the terrible scene was his wife, Ashley Linker, who looked out the door immediately after the crash. Rhyne was rushed to CaroMont Medical Center, but the severity of his injuries proved too great, and he passed away just over an hour later, leaving his family in unimaginable grief.
Remembering Rhyne Linker: A Life of Talent and Connection
For Rhyne’s mother, Janice Spidel, the sudden violence of his death is tempered only by the vibrant memories of the son she lost. She describes Rhyne as an “amazing young man” whose defining characteristics were his creativity, intelligence, and genuine love for people. He possessed an innate talent for music; as Spidel proudly noted, “If my son picked up a string instrument, he learned how to play it.” He was “extremely talented” and creative, with a sharp mind that made him stand out.
His passions included rock and roll and all varieties of string instruments, but the core of his world was his family: his 33-year-old wife, Ashley Linker, and his 15-year-old son, Gabriel Linker. Rhyne was profoundly devoted to his roles as a husband and father. Beyond his immediate family, Rhyne was a true “people person,” known for his outgoing nature, wit, and sense of humor. His mother emphasized that Rhyne “did not meet a stranger,” a quality he inherited from his grandmother, making friends effortlessly everywhere he went. The immense void left by his absence is palpable, with Spidel stating simply, “The world is a much darker place this morning because we do not have him here.”
Calls for Accountability and Forgiveness
The immediate aftermath of the crash presented a chaotic scene. Authorities believe that at least one person—and potentially more—fled the vehicle that killed Rhyne. It remains unclear exactly how many occupants were in the car when the collision occurred.
However, one individual from the striking car did remain on the scene and turned himself in. Janice Spidel confirmed this, although police have not yet filed any charges publicly. The family’s focus now is on accountability and the hope that anyone else involved will come forward. Spidel expressed a difficult, complex mix of pain and nascent forgiveness toward the person who cooperated with authorities.
The most urgent message from a grieving mother is directed at the person who ran. Spidel made a direct, emotional plea through the media: “Please turn yourself in. Young man, if you are still out there, please turn yourself in.” She stressed that she does not understand the decision to hit someone and then flee, but her core desire is for the individual to take responsibility for their actions. The family hopes that the public appeal will prompt the person who remains at large to come forward, bringing a small measure of closure and justice to this devastating loss.
