ALEXANDER COUNTY, N.C. — A tragic collision on US 64 near Liberty Grove Church Road has claimed the life of 42-year-old Jesse Wayne Walker of Hickory. The crash occurred on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at approximately 2:24 p.m., according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Authorities reported that a black 2010 Dodge Nitro driven by Walker veered left of center and collided head-on with a 2020 Freightliner tractor-trailer operated by 51-year-old Harvey Matthew Fritts of Hudson. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Walker succumbed to his injuries at the scene, while Fritts was unharmed.
Senior Trooper K. Jake Macchia of the Highway Patrol indicated that impairment was a contributing factor in the collision. No charges will be filed in connection with the crash.
The impact forced US 64 to be closed for approximately three hours while the Highway Patrol conducted an on-scene investigation and cleared the wreckage.
Friends, family, and the community of Hickory are mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Walker, who was remembered as a devoted family member and friend. The Highway Patrol continues to remind motorists of the dangers of impaired driving, emphasizing the importance of road safety to prevent further tragedies.
This incident marks another heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can be lost on North Carolina roadways. Our condolences go out to the loved ones of Jesse Wayne Walker during this difficult and painful time.