Man dies days after crash on Deep Ford Road in Ashe Co.

Here’s a fleshed-out ~500-word news-style article on the crash, based on verified report

Man in Critical Condition After Ashe County Crash Dies Days Later

ASHE COUNTY, N.C. – A single-vehicle crash on Deep Ford Road left a man critically injured on April 15, and authorities confirmed he succumbed to his injuries five days later.

State Highway Patrol reports indicate that on Saturday, April 15, at approximately 5:00 p.m., 40-year-old Kenneth Cecil Johnson of Lansing was driving a 2007 Chevrolet Colorado west on Deep Ford Road near Old Highway 16 when he crossed the center line, veered off the left side of the road, and struck a guardrail.

Responding troopers noted that Johnson was not wearing a seatbelt; as a result, he was partially ejected from the vehicle during the crash. Emergency crews airlifted him by medical helicopter to Johnson City Medical Center, where he remained critically injured.

Five days later, on April 20, Johnson tragically passed away from his injuries at the hospital.

During the investigation scene, authorities temporarily closed the affected stretch of Deep Ford Road for roughly two hours to manage traffic and examine the crash sit

Deep Ford Road, which intersects Old Highway 16 in Ashe County, is known to local drivers for its winding, rural nature. Collisions in such areas frequently result in serious outcomes, especially when vehicles leave the r

Investigators emphasized that Johnson was not wearing his seatbelt—a factor that contributed to his partial ejection from the vehicle. This underscores the critical importance of wearing restraints, which significantly reduce the risk of fatal injury in crashes.

The rapid response by emergency crews, including air transport to the hospital, demonstrates preparedness. Still, even with prompt medical intervention, Johnson’s injuries proved fatal. The five-day survival in hospital highlights both the gravity of the injuries and the efforts

Crash date: Saturday, April 15, 2023, approximately 5:00 p.m. on Deep Ford Road near Old Highway 16

Driver: Kenneth Cecil Johnson, 40, of Lansing

Vehicle: 2007 Chevrolet Colorado, traveling west, crossed center line, hit guardrail

Key factors: Not restrained; partially ejected

Medical response: Airlifted to Johnson City Medical Center

Date of death: Passed away from injuries on Thursday, April 20, 2023

Traffic impact: Road closed for ~2 hours during investi

This tragic incident once again brings attention to the vital importance of seatbelt use and road safety. Even when emergency response systems work swiftly, the combination of high-impact crashes and lack of restraints can prove fatal.

Let me know if you’d like a quote from a local official or m

ore background on traffic safety efforts in the region.