On Thursday, October 29th, at approximately 6:10 a.m., the North Carolina State Highway Patrol responded to and investigated a fatal collision on I-77 near Langtree Road (Exit 31), in Iredell County.
An initial investigation by Troopers with the assistance of the NCSHP Reconstruction Unit indicated that Jeffrey Tyler Robertson, 35, of Troutman, was operating a 2004 Kawasaki cruiser-style motorcycle in the southbound toll lane of I-77 when he experienced an apparent tire failure, lost control, and overturned.
After separating from the operator, the motorcycle traveled through the lane attenuators and was struck by a tractor-trailer. Mr. Robertson came to rest in the southbound toll lane and was struck by a 2020 Chevrolet SUV. Mr. Robertson succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the collision.
Although the incident was initially suspected to involve a hit-and-run driver, comprehensive reviews of toll lane footage, tractor-trailer dash camera video, and other sources have produced no evidence of any additional vehicles being involved.
The investigation remains ongoing, any witnesses who have not communicated with law enforcement are urged to contact the Newton – Highway Patrol Communications Center at 828-466-5500.
No charges have been filed at this time.