VILAS, N.C. — A tragic accident on US 421 in Watauga County claimed the life of a Vilas resident on Saturday evening, Sept. 6, 2025. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol confirmed that 39-year-old Joseph Clyde Butler died from injuries sustained in a collision involving his electric bicycle and a pickup truck.
Details of the Crash
The crash occurred around 8:50 p.m. near Vanderpool Road, just outside Vilas. Authorities say Butler was traveling southbound on an electric bicycle when he was struck from behind by a 2003 Ford F-250, also heading south.
According to investigators, the driver of the truck, identified as David Bruce Woodring, 58, of Boone, failed to reduce speed adequately and collided with Butler’s bicycle. The impact ejected Butler onto the roadway, causing critical injuries.
Emergency responders rushed Butler to Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, but despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries on Sunday, Sept. 7. Troopers confirmed that Butler was not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision.
Woodring, the driver of the Ford, was not injured in the incident.
Speed Identified as Contributing Factor
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that excessive speed played a role in the crash. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, including traffic data and witness statements, to determine the full circumstances leading to the collision.
The roadway remained closed for approximately three hours as troopers conducted their on-scene investigation, redirecting traffic through alternate routes.
Charges Pending Review
At this time, no formal charges have been filed. Highway Patrol officials confirmed that charges are pending consultation with the Watauga County District Attorney’s Office.
“Our investigators are working closely with the DA’s office to review all the facts of this case,” an NCSHP spokesperson said. “Once the investigation is complete, appropriate action will be taken.”
Community Impact
News of Butler’s passing has deeply shaken the Vilas community, where he was known among family, friends, and neighbors. The incident has also renewed conversations in Watauga County about road safety for bicyclists, particularly as the use of electric bikes continues to grow in the region.
Local residents expressed their condolences online, many highlighting the need for drivers to remain alert on rural stretches of US 421, where traffic often mixes between passenger vehicles, trucks, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Ongoing Investigation
The Highway Patrol emphasized that the case remains under investigation and urged anyone with additional information about the crash to contact authorities. Updates are expected once the district attorney’s office finalizes its review.
For now, the community mourns the sudden loss of Joseph Clyde Butler, while state officials work to determine whether criminal charges will be filed in connection with the fatal collision.
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