Patrick Allen Turner, 63, of Cary, North Carolina, died after a vehicle struck a group of cyclists on Optimist Farm Road near Holly Springs on Saturday morning, November 7, 2026. The collision also left several other riders injured and led to criminal charges against a 76-year-old driver.
The accused driver, Donald Robert Morris-Jones, appeared virtually in court on Monday. A judge set his bond at $1 million as he faced 19 charges connected to the crash, including felony death by vehicle and felony hit-and-run involving serious injury or death.
According to court documents and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol account cited in reports, the vehicle struck the cycling group before Morris-Jones allegedly continued driving. His black Infiniti later crashed, and he was arrested.
At least six injured cyclists were reportedly taken to hospitals for medical treatment. Turner was the only fatality identified in the available account.
What Happened on Optimist Farm Road?
The crash occurred during a group cycling ride near Holly Springs in Wake County. Members of the Capital Cycling Club were among those involved.
Investigators say the vehicle driven by Morris-Jones struck multiple cyclists. The driver allegedly left the initial collision scene before crashing his Infiniti and being taken into custody.
The precise sequence of events and the circumstances behind the collision remain subject to the ongoing investigation and court proceedings.
Driver Faces 19 Criminal Charges
Morris-Jones, 76, appeared before a judge virtually on Monday following his arrest.
The 19 charges include allegations of felony hit-and-run involving serious injury or death and felony death by vehicle. The judge imposed a $1 million bond and reportedly raised concerns about the danger he could pose to the public.
Court reporting also indicated that electronic monitoring could be required if he is released.
The potential prison sentence discussed in court reporting could exceed 90 years if Morris-Jones is convicted. However, the charges remain allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Capital Cycling Club Members Remember Patrick Turner
Turner’s death has affected fellow cyclists who shared the road with him during the group ride.
Several Capital Cycling Club members attended the court hearing, both to support one another and to follow developments in the case.
Tim Charlino, who said he was leading the ride, described narrowly avoiding the vehicle. He later recalled stopping to witness the aftermath, where cyclists faced damaged bicycles and serious injuries.
Charlino said the group wanted answers and was standing together in support of friends and the wider cycling community.
Katie Hamister, who had previously been struck while cycling on the Blue Ridge Parkway in 2019, also spoke about the emotional impact of the Holly Springs collision. She recalled the fear of her own experience and emphasized the importance of cyclists being able to ride safely and return home to their families.
The tragedy has renewed attention to the risks faced by people cycling on public roads.
Patrick Allen Turner Obituary and Cause of Death
Obituary: Patrick Allen Turner, 63, of Cary, North Carolina, died following a collision involving a group of cyclists on Optimist Farm Road near Holly Springs on November 7, 2026.
Cause of Death: Turner was killed after being struck by a vehicle during the group ride. The crash also left several other cyclists injured.
Funeral Arrangements: Funeral, burial and memorial service details were not included in the available report.
Disclaimer: Donald Robert Morris-Jones faces criminal charges in connection with the collision. The allegations have not been proven in court, and he is presumed innocent unless found guilty.