WILMINGTON, New Hanover County, N.C., Oct. 25, 2026 — A bicyclist was left in critical condition on Friday night, October 23, after a vehicle struck them on Carolina Beach Road in Wilmington, N.C.
The crash happened around 9:05 p.m. near the intersection with Medical Center Drive, according to the Wilmington Police Department. The cyclist was riding an e-bike at the time. Paramedics took the rider to Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with injuries described as life-threatening.
The northbound lanes of Carolina Beach Road were shut down completely while crash investigators worked the scene, and drivers were urged to find other routes. It was not clear how long the closure lasted.
Charges are possible once the investigation is complete, but they cautioned it is too early to say who was at fault. Names of those involved have not been released.
The case remains under investigation. Authorities have not said whether additional information, including updates on the cyclist's condition, will be released as the inquiry continues.
We wish those injured a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Wilmington, NC
This bicycle crash happened on Carolina Beach Road in Wilmington, NC. We cover crashes across New Hanover County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our New Hanover County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cyclists have the same rights to the road as drivers?
In North Carolina and most states, cyclists are generally treated as operators of vehicles and share the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, including the right to use travel lanes.
Are bicycle crashes more likely to happen at intersections?
Many bicycle and vehicle collisions occur at or near intersections and driveways, where paths cross and visibility can be limited, though midblock crashes like this one also happen.
What injuries are most common in bicycle crashes?
Head and brain injuries, broken bones, and road rash are common, since cyclists have little protection in a collision with a vehicle. Injuries can range from minor to life-threatening depending on speed and impact.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Wilmington, NC
If you're involved in a bicycle crash in Wilmington, get checked by a medical provider even if you feel okay at first, since some injuries, especially head injuries, aren't obvious right away. Keep any records from the scene, including photos of the bike, the road, and visible injuries, and hold onto contact information for witnesses. Follow up with police to get a copy of the official report once it's available, and give yourself time to heal before making any decisions about next steps.
