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Hickory Police Investigating Fatal Motorcycle Crash

June 15, 2026 By Richard C. Gilbert

The Hickory Police Department is investigating a fatal crash involving a motorcycle that occurred on Friday, June 12th.

Around 8:12 p.m., a 2024 Kawasaki EX500, driven by Alex Austin, 19, of Valdese, was traveling east on US Hwy 70 SE near 21st Street Lane SE following a 2021 Hyundai Kona. The Kawasaki struck the rear of the Hyundai Kona in the middle lane.

Austin was transported to Catawba Valley Media Center by Catawba County EMS and then airlifted to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. Austin died on Saturday, June 13, from his injuries sustained from the crash.

No charges were filed as of Monday, June 15.

This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Sergeant Amanda Efird at aefird@hickorync.gov or call the Hickory Police Department at 828-328-5551.

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