Foscoe, NC (May 13, 2026) – A 20-year-old man died after a head-on crash in Watauga County on Tuesday night, May 12. The collision happened around 10:30 p.m. on Highway 105 near the Avery County line.
Officials said a 2017 Ram pickup truck was traveling south when it crossed the center line. It then hit a 2019 Ram pickup truck head-on.
The driver of the 2019 truck, Daylen Buchanan, 20, died after the crash. The driver of the 2017 truck, Alex Gil Hernandez, 18, was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Officials said speed and impairment were not factors in the crash. Hernandez was charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and reckless driving.
Highway 105 was closed for several hours before reopening. The crash remains under investigation. Our condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones, and we wish the injured teen a full recovery.
Head-on Crash Risks on Mountain Highways
Head-on crashes can be severe because both vehicles may be moving toward each other at the time of impact. This can create a strong force, even when speed is not listed as a factor. Pickup trucks can also cause significant damage due to their size and weight.
Mountain highways may feature curves, grade changes, and limited shoulder space. These roadway features can reduce the time drivers have to react. Center-line crossings are especially dangerous because they place vehicles directly in the path of oncoming traffic.
After a serious crash, medical teams often check for head, chest, leg, and internal injuries. Vehicle damage, road markings, and final resting positions may help explain how the collision happened. These details can provide context after early reports are released.
