Last Updated on June 16, 2025 2:23 pm
NORTH WILKESBORO – On Sunday, June 15, at approximately 10:00 p.m., the NC State Highway Patrol responded to and investigated a fatal collision in Wilkes County on NC 268 near Abtco Road. During rainy conditions, a 2005 Nissan Sentra traveling west on NC-268 crossed the centerline and collided head-on with an eastbound 1999 Toyota Tacoma.
The driver of the Nissan, Gary Michael Johnson, 74, of North Wilkesboro, succumbed to his injuries at the scene. He was not wearing a seatbelt.
The driver of the Toyota, Easton Kinnedi Townsend, 18, of Ronda, was not injured.
The initial investigation does not indicate impairment or speed as contributing factors. NC 268 was closed in the area for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation. No charges will be filed in this case.
