Asheville, September 9, 2025
News Summary
The Asheville cycling community mourns the loss of Jacob Hill and Lennie Antonelli, elite cyclists killed in a collision with a dump truck. Their deaths have sparked urgent calls for improved safety in the city’s biking infrastructure. Cyclist fatalities are a growing concern, with seven reported since 2021, highlighting systemic issues in roadway conditions for cyclists. Local advocacy groups are pushing for necessary reforms as city planners develop a ‘Safe Streets for WNC’ plan aimed at enhancing cyclist safety in the area.
Asheville, North Carolina – The Asheville cycling community came together on July 3, 2025, to remember two beloved cyclists, Jacob Hill and Lennie Antonelli, who tragically lost their lives in a collision with a dump truck on July 1, 2025. Both cyclists were training in Madison County, preparing for upcoming competitions, when the fatal accident occurred.
Hill, 32, and Antonelli, 27, were recognized as elite athletes, both having represented the Olympic-level cycling community. A third cyclist, Griffin Tichenor, was also involved in the crash but sustained only minor injuries. The driver of the dump truck, Cody Munday, has been charged with felony hit and run resulting in serious injury or death. He is currently facing legal proceedings related to the incident.
The loss of Hill and Antonelli has raised serious concerns within the Asheville cycling community, especially in light of a troubling trend involving cyclist fatalities. Since 2021, seven cyclists have died on the roads of Asheville. Statistics from 2015 to 2024 reveal that there were 165 injuries and 211 total crashes involving cyclists reported in the city. Asheville ranked first in North Carolina for per capita cyclist deaths during this period and second for total bike crashes.
Significant dissatisfaction with Asheville’s cycling infrastructure has been voiced by cyclists; over 68% reported feeling unsafe while riding. Despite earning a bronze-level designation as a bicycle-friendly community from the League of American Bicyclists in 2024, Asheville’s cycling infrastructure received a low score of just 9 out of 100 from PeopleforBikes, highlighting severe deficiencies.
City planners acknowledge the substantial gaps in bicycle connectivity and safety throughout Asheville. Many roads were not designed with cyclists in mind, leading to dangerous conditions for riders. Local advocacy groups are calling for immediate improvements but face obstacles such as budget constraints and rising construction costs, limiting their capacity to effect change.
The “Safe Streets for WNC” plan has been developed to identify high-risk areas for cyclists in Asheville, with a goal to improve roadway safety. Planned infrastructure updates include new bike lanes and sidewalks on Haywood Road, as well as Amboy and Meadow roads, targeting completion between 2026 and 2028.
In the wake of the tragic deaths of Hill and Antonelli, memorial events included a large bike ride through Asheville and heartfelt eulogies delivered by friends, family, and fellow cyclists. These gatherings served as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the urgent need for safer cycling conditions.
Advocates have emphasized that the flawed bicycle safety system in Asheville necessitates immediate attention. The community’s response to the loss of Hill and Antonelli has collectively underscored the pressing demand for enhanced infrastructure and safety measures to protect cyclists and pedestrians throughout the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Jacob Hill and Lennie Antonelli?
Jacob Hill and Lennie Antonelli were killed in a crash involving a dump truck while training in Madison County on July 1, 2025. Another cyclist, Griffin Tichenor, was injured but survived.
What charges have been filed against the dump truck driver?
The driver, Cody Munday, has been charged with felony hit and run causing serious injury or death and is currently facing ongoing legal proceedings.
What safety issues do cyclists face in Asheville?
Asheville has seen a high number of cyclist fatalities and injuries, and over 68% of cyclists reported dissatisfaction with the city’s cycling infrastructure. There is a pressing need for improvements in roadway safety and connectivity.
What plans are in place to improve cycling infrastructure in Asheville?
The “Safe Streets for WNC” plan aims to enhance safety for cyclists by identifying high-risk areas and implementing new bike lanes and sidewalks, particularly on Haywood Road and Amboy and Meadow roads.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fatal Incident | Jacob Hill and Lennie Antonelli killed by dump truck on July 1, 2025. |
| Driver’s Charges | Cody Munday charged with felony hit and run. |
| Cyclist Fatalities | Seven cyclists killed in Asheville since 2021. |
| Cyclist Injury Statistics | 165 injury-causing crashes and 211 total crashes since 2015. |
| Cycling Infrastructure | Bronze-level bicycle-friendly status; score of 9 out of 100 for infrastructure. |
| Future Plans | New bike lanes and sidewalks planned for Haywood Road and Amboy/Meadow roads between 2026 and 2028. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Memorial Service for Cyclists Lost in Tragic Accident
Tragic Collision Claims Lives of Two Cyclists in Asheville
Cyclists Tragically Killed in Asheville Collision
Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Cyclist in Albuquerque
Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Asheville’s River Arts District
Additional Resources
- WLOS: Two Fatal Incidents in Asheville
- ABC News: Dump Truck Driver Charged
- MSN: Liberty Bikes Plans Memorial
- Google Search: Cyclist Safety Asheville
- Wikipedia: Bicycle Safety
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
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