Tragedy on NC-251: Two Asheville Cyclists Killed After Dump Truck Veers Into Oncoming Lane in Madison County
MADISON COUNTY, N.C. — July 2, 2025 — A beloved cycling tradition in Western North Carolina turned deadly Tuesday evening when a dump truck crossed the center line of NC-251 near Panhandle Road, crashing into a group of three cyclists and killing two of them. The victims, Jacob Hill, 32, and Leonard Antonelli, 27, were both residents of Asheville, according to authorities with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. A third cyclist, who has not yet been publicly identified, and the driver of the truck sustained minor injuries.
The devastating collision occurred around 6:30 p.m. on July 2, along a popular stretch of highway that runs beside the French Broad River, a route known to the local cycling community as the “Tuesday Night Worlds” ride — a weekly gathering of amateur and experienced cyclists alike.
A Close-Knit Community Shattered
For those familiar with the weekly group ride, the news has sent shockwaves across the cycling community. Riders who routinely take part in the Tuesday night event are expressing grief, disbelief, and a renewed sense of vulnerability.
“It’s a huge tragedy for everyone involved,” said Youngblood Haske, owner of Youngblood Bicycles in Asheville and a regular participant in the ride. “I was reaching out to all my friends who usually do the ride, just making sure they’re okay. Everyone is checking in on each other.”
Haske, who didn’t participate in this week’s ride due to inclement weather, said he personally knew both Jacob Hill and Leonard Antonelli.
“I know both of them. This could’ve been me. It could’ve been any of my close friends,” he said. “It makes us all pause and feel our vulnerability.”
Haske explained that NC-251 is often chosen for its flat terrain, which makes it ideal for group rides in an otherwise hilly region.
“[NC-251] is used because it’s one of the flattest around here,” he said. “It’s easy to keep a group together on a flat road. Sometimes there’ll be 20 riders in the group.”
What Happened?
According to initial reports from 1st Sgt. Scott Smith, the dump truck crossed the center line into the opposite lane of traffic, directly striking the three cyclists. The exact reason the driver veered off course remains under investigation, and authorities have not confirmed whether charges will be filed.
The incident led to the closure of NC-251 in both directions for over three hours, as crews worked to investigate the crash and clear debris.
Photos from the scene show emergency vehicles lining the narrow roadway, with caution tape and traffic barriers marking the crash area — a chilling reminder of the lives lost.
A Call for Safer Roads
The tragedy is once again drawing attention to road safety laws, cyclist protection measures, and the shared responsibility between drivers and non-motorized road users.
“You’re allowed to walk on the road, ride a horse, have a tractor or a bicycle,” Haske said. “Motorists are required by law to give at least four feet of space when passing a cyclist. You’re also allowed to cross the double yellow line to pass a bicycle if it’s safe to do so. These are the kinds of things we need to talk about more.”
Mike Sule, executive director of Asheville on Bikes, emphasized that public roads are for everyone — not just cars.
“It’s important to recognize that public rights of way are public space,” Sule said. “They’re reserved for the public good and benefit. It’s no different than a public park.”
Sule also hopes the incident sparks policy changes and infrastructure improvements, such as protected bike lanes or better signage along frequently used cycling routes.
“This isn’t just an accident — it’s an opportunity to reassess how we’re protecting people on bikes,” he added. “They’re not just cyclists. They’re human beings. They had families, passions, and futures.”
Remembering the Victims
Jacob Hill and Leonard Antonelli were both well-known and well-loved members of Asheville’s vibrant cycling community. Friends describe them as passionate, kind, and always eager to help newer riders feel welcome.
Local cycling groups are already planning a memorial ride in their honor. In the coming days, families are expected to release funeral and service details. Online tributes have poured in, with fellow cyclists, community members, and friends expressing their sorrow.
“It’s hard to process. These guys were out doing what they loved — riding in the beauty of Western North Carolina — and now they’re gone,” said longtime friend and fellow cyclist Nate Wilkes.
Investigation Continues
As of Wednesday afternoon, no charges have been filed. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the cause of the crash. Toxicology reports and eyewitness accounts will likely be used to determine whether the truck driver will face criminal consequences.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information is encouraged to contact authorities at the Madison County Sheriff’s Office or the NCSHP Asheville division.