HICKORY, N.C. — The Hickory Police Department is actively investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on the evening of Thursday, June 18, 2026, along 13th Avenue Drive SE, an incident that left one man dead and remains under review as authorities examine all contributing factors.
According to investigators, the crash happened at approximately 7:55 p.m. when a 2021 Kawasaki motorcycle, driven by 32-year-old Levi Scovern of Hickory, was traveling westbound on 13th Avenue Drive SE. At the same time, a 2025 MINI Cooper was exiting the parking lot of the Hampton Inn and turning left onto the same roadway, also heading west.
Authorities stated that as the MINI Cooper merged into traffic from the hotel parking lot, the Kawasaki motorcycle struck the rear of the vehicle. The impact resulted in serious injuries to Scovern, who was quickly transported to Frye Regional Medical Center for emergency medical treatment. Despite efforts by medical personnel, he was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.
Crash investigators confirmed that preliminary findings indicate excessive speed by the motorcycle was a contributing factor in the collision. Officials emphasized that the investigation is still ongoing as they work to fully reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the crash.
As of Friday, June 19, no charges have been filed in connection with the incident. Authorities have not yet announced whether any additional contributing factors, such as visibility, roadway conditions, or timing of the vehicle’s turn, played a role in the crash.
The Hickory Police Department continues to gather evidence, review witness accounts, and analyze the crash scene as part of its ongoing investigation. Officials are also asking for the public’s assistance in helping clarify what happened in the moments before the collision.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information is urged to contact Master Police Officer Elijah Adkins via email at eadkins@hickorync.gov or by calling the Hickory Police Department at 828-328-5551.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
