$1M Million Bond Upheld for Driver Accused in Fatal Cyclist Crash in Wake County
A judge maintains a $1 million bond for a driver charged with killing a cyclist and injuring 20 others in a violent North Carolina crash near Apex.
POLICY WIRE — Apex, North Carolina — A local judge ruled Monday to maintain a $1 million bond for a driver facing charges following a devastating collision with a group of cyclists in Wake County. The incident resulted in one fatality and injuries to 20 other individuals.
Donald Robert Morris-Jones, a 76-year-old resident of Apex, appeared in court via video link regarding the Saturday accident on Optimist Farm Road. Prosecutors allege that Morris-Jones did not stop after hitting the cycling group and was eventually discovered approximately half-mile away after crashing into a sign and ending up in a ditch.
Law enforcement officers reported that they smelled alcohol on Morris-Jones and conducted a field sobriety test at the scene. While his specific blood alcohol level was not released during the hearing, authorities noted he had very slurred speech and was swaying while standing. He also declined to take a preliminary breath test.
Data from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol indicates that Morris-Jones crossed the center line before striking members of the Capital Cycling Club. The crash occurred around 9:40 a.m. and claimed the life of 63-year-old Patrick Turner of Cary. Seven cyclists sustained serious injuries, while 13 others suffered minor wounds.
Morris-Jones faces a litany of charges including felony death by vehicle, seven counts of felony serious injury by vehicle, and eight felony hit-and-run charges, alongside DWI and various traffic violations. The judge noted the defendant could face a maximum prison sentence of 112 years if convicted.
Members of the cycling club were present for the Monday proceedings. If Morris-Jones is granted release, he must be subject to electronic monitoring and is strictly prohibited from driving or consuming alcohol.
Tim Charlino, President of the Capital Cycling Club, stated the black Infiniti likely clipped his saddlebag. Charlino remarked that he escaped by inches and did not see the impact, but the sound of the crash prompted him to pull over. He expressed shock that the driver continued to accelerate after such a loud collision.
A roadside memorial now marks the site of the tragedy, featuring flowers and a sign asking for respect for riders. A candlelight vigil honoring Patrick Turner is scheduled for this coming Sunday.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)