HYDE COUNTY, N.C. — The Hyde County community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 12-year-old Xavier Reynolds, who died Monday afternoon following a tragic dirt bike crash involving an SUV.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of Nebraska Road and High Road. Troopers said Xavier was operating a dirt bike with a 10-year-old passenger when the bike failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a westbound SUV traveling along Nebraska Road.
Both children were thrown from the dirt bike during the impact, and authorities confirmed neither was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Xavier suffered critical injuries and died while being transported to a helicopter landing zone for emergency care. The 10-year-old passenger sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and continues to receive medical treatment.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene as investigators worked to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. The driver of the SUV was not reported to be injured.
Family, friends, and community members are left heartbroken by the sudden loss of a young life. Those who knew Xavier remember him as a bright and energetic child with his whole future ahead of him. The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of prayers and support for his family, as well as for the injured child and their loved ones.
As the investigation continues, the Hyde County community is united in mourning, holding close the memory of a life lost far too soon. Authorities continue to remind residents of the importance of safety measures to help prevent future tragedies.