A tragic accident in Burke County claimed the life of 29-year-old Japheth Jesse Obanner of Morganton on Saturday, November 8, 2025, after he was struck by a vehicle while walking along U.S. Highway 70 near Snowhill Church Road, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Troopers say the crash occurred around 6:08 p.m., when Obanner, who was in the middle of the roadway, was hit by an eastbound 2001 Ford F550 driven by 75-year-old Joan Marie Carter of South Dakota. Sadly, Obanner died at the scene from his injuries.
Authorities reported that Carter was not injured in the collision. The initial investigation revealed that impairment and walking in the roadway were contributing factors in the incident. Troopers also noted that Obanner was wearing dark clothing and walking in an unlit section of the highway at the time of the crash.
Investigators determined that no charges will be filed in connection with the accident.
U.S. 70 was temporarily closed for about two hours as troopers conducted their on-scene investigation and cleared the roadway.
The community mourns the loss of Japheth Jesse Obanner, whose life ended far too soon in this tragic event.
