The Hickory Police Department is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred on US Hwy 70 SE on Friday, August 29, 2025, around 10:20 p.m.
Hickory Officers responded to the crash involving a 2020 Kawasaki Motorcycle that ran off the roadway while traveling west on US Hwy 70 SE and struck two vehicles parked in the parking lot of Cloninger Ford of Hickory, 1241 US Hwy 70 SE.
The driver of the Kawasaki Motorcycle, Elijah Jenks, 23, of Granite Quarry, NC, was pronounced deceased on scene.
During the investigation, officers determined excessive speed was a factor in this collision. No charges have been filed as of the date of this release.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Amanda Efird with the Hickory Police Department at 828-328-5551.