LINVILLE, N.C. — A man is facing charges after driving into a crowd of runners killing a woman and injuring multiple people at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
According to Grandfather Mountain Highland Games officials, the accident happened shortly after 7 p.m. Thursday near the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. Highway 105 in Linville.
Troopers said an 80-year-old man was trying to leave a van in park but when he intended to press the brake, he unintentionally hit the gas pedal. The van hit people who were gathered for a race.
72-year-old Julie Holderness died at Cannon Memorial Hospital from her injuries.
Other Victims
- Jesse D. Pipes, 43, of Boone, was hospitalized for leg injuries.
- Ralph E. Summey III, 61, of Shelby, was hospitalized for knee and leg injuries.
- An unidentified person who refused EMS treatment and elected not to be interviewed by investigators.
- Adrien J. Herbison, 45, of Newland, NC. who was operating a John Deere gate was treated for leg and neck injuries.
Troopers said James Russell Deni of Boone is being charged with unsafe movement and misdemeanor death by vehicle.
Officials said the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games took immediate action to cancel the race.
“The Bear,” part of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, is a 5-mile footrace that starts at the intersection in Linville and ends on top of Grandfather Mountain.
Multiple witnesses said a shuttle van hit several people.
“On behalf of myself and the entire Grandfather Mountain Highland Games organization and family, we are deeply saddened by tonight’s devastating event and extend our condolences to those affected,” Grandfather Mountain Highland Games President Steve Quillin said.
Officials said the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games activities set for Friday through Sunday would go as planned.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol said charges are pending for the driver of the vehicle.