The quiet of the morning rush was shattered Tuesday when 33-year-old Antonio Topp lost his life in a devastating collision involving a Cumberland County school bus. Authorities say the crash occurred at 7:40 a.m. near the intersection of Bragg Boulevard and Andy Street, a heavily traveled corridor just two miles from Fort Bragg.
Topp was heading south on his motorcycle when Bus 788, driven by 55-year-old Lisa Geddie, began executing a legal U-turn from the southbound to the northbound lanes. The motorcycle struck the side of the bus with immense force, throwing Topp from his bike.Eyewitnesses ran toward the wreckage in a desperate attempt to save him. Some called 911 while others tried to comfort him as they awaited first responders.
Emergency crews arrived within minutes, but despite their rapid response and life-saving efforts, Topp was pronounced dead at the scene.Inside the bus were two young students, both unharmed in the collision. Geddie, who has more than a decade of service with the school district, was also uninjured. Officials praised her quick actions in ensuring the children’s safety in the chaotic aftermath.
Police investigators are now piecing together the sequence of events, with speed being examined as a possible factor in the fatal crash. Traffic along Bragg Boulevard ground to a halt for several hours as officers conducted accident reconstruction and cleared the scene. Many commuters reported significant delays, underscoring the widespread impact of the tragedy.
As news of Topp’s passing spread, friends and family expressed heartbreak over the loss of a man remembered for his warm spirit and love of motorcycles. Cumberland County Schools extended condolences to his loved ones, while community members paused to reflect on the fragility of life.Our thoughts remain with Antonio Topp’s family during this deeply difficult time.
