WILKES COUNTY, NC — A devastating head-on collision Friday evening in Wilkes County has left three people dead, including a local sheriff’s deputy, and two others hospitalized. The crash, which occurred just after 7 p.m. on Red White and Blue Road near Ruth Linney Road, is being investigated by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Authorities say the deadly collision happened when a northbound 2003 Jeep Liberty crossed the centerline and slammed into a 2018 Nissan Altima traveling south. The driver of the Jeep, identified as 62-year-old Randy Johnson, was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators noted that Johnson was not wearing a seatbelt, which may have contributed to the severity of his injuries.
Inside the Nissan Altima was Deputy Johnathan Laws, 34, a respected member of the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office. Laws suffered critical injuries and was airlifted to a nearby hospital, where he later died. Also killed in the crash was 72-year-old Vickie Key, a rear-seat passenger in the Altima, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two additional passengers in the Nissan were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Their names have not yet been released as family members are being notified.
First responders from Ronda Fire and Rescue and Broadway Fire and Rescue arrived quickly and worked to extricate the victims from the wreckage. Red White and Blue Road was closed for nearly two hours while troopers investigated the scene.
Highway Patrol officials stated that neither speed nor alcohol appears to be a factor in the crash. It remains unclear why Johnson’s Jeep veered into the oncoming lane. The investigation is ongoing.
The death of Deputy Laws has sent a wave of grief through the local law enforcement community. Known for his dedication and professionalism, Laws is being remembered as a public servant who gave his all to protecting his community.
“This is an unimaginable loss for our department,” said a spokesperson for the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office. “Deputy Laws was more than a colleague—he was a friend, a protector, and a true example of selfless service.”
As the community mourns the tragic loss of three lives, officials are urging drivers to stay vigilant and cautious, especially on rural roads where conditions can quickly become hazardous. Further updates will be released as more details emerge.