On Friday, February 14th, at approximately 8:50 p.m., the NC State Highway Patrol responded to and is investigating a fatal hit-and-run collision in Catawba County on US 70 near 4th Street SW. A bicyclist traveling east on US 70 was struck by a vehicle that immediately fled the scene.
The bicyclist, Donald Steven Ricker, 58, of Newton, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The suspect vehicle is believed to be a 2018, 2019, or 2020 Ford F-150, F-250 Super Duty, or possibly a Ford Mustang.
The Highway Patrol is requesting public assistance from anyone who may have been involved or seen something in the area of US 70 near Nagano Japanese Restaurant from approximately 8:45 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Those with information regarding this collision should contact the Highway Patrol at 828-466-5500. The investigation is ongoing.