GRANITE FALLS, N.C. — The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is investigating a hit-and-run collision that left a 47-year-old Granite Falls man with serious injuries early Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, and is appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the driver responsible.
Troopers responded to the scene around 9:50 a.m. on the 400 block of Dudley Shoals Road, where Jimmy Mellon, 47, of Granite Falls, was riding north on a green bicycle. According to the investigation, Mellon’s bike was struck by an unknown vehicle, causing him to veer off the roadway and collide with a tree. He was ejected from the bicycle and sustained serious injuries, requiring transport by medical helicopter to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte.
During the on-scene investigation, troopers located a passenger-side mirror believed to belong to a 2014-2018 GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck. The mirror was found at the crash site, providing a key clue in identifying the fleeing vehicle.
The incident occurred between approximately 12:00 a.m. and 9:50 a.m., and the Highway Patrol is urging anyone who may have been in the area during that time frame to come forward. Witnesses or those with dash cam footage are especially encouraged to share details.
The Highway Patrol emphasized that leaving the scene of an accident is a felony under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-166(c), punishable by up to 59 months in prison and fines up to $25,000, especially when serious injuries occur.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the NC State Highway Patrol at 828-466-5500. The investigation remains ongoing, and troopers are committed to holding the responsible party accountable.