One person was killed in a two-vehicle collision in Catawba County this morning (September 7). The deceased is 62-year-old Gary Lee Washburn of Vale.

At about 9:45 a.m. today, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol responded to the accident scene on Startown Road at Catawba Valley Boulevard. A 1999 Harley Davidson motorcycle was traveling east on Catawba Valley Boulevard when it entered the intersection on a red light and was struck by a northbound 2011 Ford F-150.

Mr. Washburn, who was driving the motorcycle, was transported by E.M.S. to Catawba Valley Medical Center, where he passed away. The driver of the F-150, a 71-year-old Lincolnton man, was not injured.

The initial investigation does not indicate impairment to be a contributing factor and no charges will be filed. During the on-scene investigation, the roadway was closed in the area for approximately one hour.