Kevin Wayne Bryan, 63, of Hendersonville was killed early Friday after his Toyota 4Runner went off U.S. 64 and struck a tree, according to authorities. Troopers arrived around 6:57 a.m. on May 8 and pronounced Bryan dead at the scene. He was the vehicle's only occupant.
According to a preliminary report from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, cited by WLOS, the SUV was traveling east on U.S. 64 when it "traveled left of center" and ran off the left shoulder before striking a tree and coming to rest. WLOS reported that troopers responded to a spot just west of the Hendersonville city limits at 6:57 a.m. The State Highway Patrol is conducting the investigation.
Where it happened
The crash took place on U.S. 64 just west of the Hendersonville city limits, a stretch local officials say sees frequent wrecks and heavy traffic. The Hendersonville Police Department lists "Hwy. 64 and I-26 On Ramps" among the city's top five crash locations, highlighting how often emergency crews are called to that corridor. The listing reflects both the steady volume of traffic and the cluster of on-ramps feeding the highway.
Investigation
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is leading the probe. As outlined by the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, troopers typically secure crash scenes, document evidence and compile official reports that are later released to the public. WLOS' initial coverage relayed the patrol's preliminary account but did not identify any cause beyond the vehicle leaving the roadway. Officials have not released any information on impairment, potential charges or contributing mechanical factors in the crash.
Additional details are expected from the State Highway Patrol as the investigation continues. Local outlets reported the patrol's initial account and are poised to share updates when troopers release follow-up findings.
