PRESS RELEASE: Burke County Public Information Officer Chris White
Morganton, NC – Late Saturday evening at approximately 10:51 p.m., Burke County EMS and Salem Fire and Rescue were dispatched to the scene of a reported motor vehicle accident near Hidden Hills Venue at 6572 Burkemont Road, Morganton. Initial reports indicated that a vehicle had gone over an embankment.
Shortly after arrival, emergency responders were notified of a second motor vehicle accident further down Burkemont Mountain, where another vehicle had left the roadway and struck a tree. This second incident prompted an expanded multi-agency response, including the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP), City of Morganton Public Safety, and Burke County Rescue.
Burke County EMS transported the individual involved in the second crash to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. No one was in or around the vehicle involved in the initial crash near the wedding venue.
As of 2:00 a.m. Sunday, October 12th, 2025, Burkemont Mountain Road remains closed and impassable. Due to the closure, several guests attending a private event at Hidden Hills Venue are currently sheltered in place until the roadway can be safely reopened. There is no estimated time for reopening at this moment.
“It is a testament to the strength of our community that when multiple incidents unfold simultaneously, emergency services across Burke County come together seamlessly to ensure that those in need are cared for without delay,” said Burke County Public Information Officer Chris White. “This level of coordination reflects the dedication and professionalism of our local agencies.”
Further updates regarding the investigation and roadway status will be provided by the Burke County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Road conditions can always be checked online at www.drivenc.gov. Media agencies feel free to reach out to the Burke County 911 Center later this morning to inquire if the roadway has yet reopened. That number is 828-437-1911 (option 9). 911 Telecommunicators will not be able to release any details of the incident other than whether the roadway is reopened or remains closed.