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Accident News
Monday, October 26, 2026

1 Killed, 1 Injured in Lincoln County Car Accident

The driver has been identified as William Rakestraw Beardslee IV, 22, of Denver, who died at the scene of a crash on Campground Road.

By Accident News StaffContributor:Candice BondCandice Bond

About this commentary

This commentary is general information, not specific to the incident in this article. It is not legal advice, and the contributor may not be licensed in your state.

Lincoln County, North CarolinaPublished 1 min read

A 22-year-old Denver man, William Rakestraw Beardslee IV, was killed and another driver was hurt in a two-car crash on Campground Road in Lincoln County early Sunday, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

Approximate area around Campground Road, Lincoln County, NC. Open in Google Maps

What Happened on Campground Road Near Forney Hill

Troopers were called to Campground Road near Forney Hill Road at about 2 a.m. Sunday. The Highway Patrol said a 2008 Rav 4 was traveling west when it crossed the centerline and sideswiped a 2018 Hyundai Tucson. The Highway Patrol said the Rav 4 then ran off the left side of the road and hit a power pole. Beardslee, who was driving the Rav 4, died at the scene. Paramedics took the Hyundai's driver to a nearby hospital for minor injuries.

Help for people affected by a crash is below.

Where the Highway Patrol Review Stands

The Highway Patrol said impairment is suspected as a contributing factor in the collision. Troopers said no charges will be filed in this case. No other details about the investigation have been released.

A full investigation into a serious crash often takes weeks, and sometimes months. Investigators usually wait for vehicle data and lab results before they finish their report.

Candice BondCandice Bond · Bond LegalFrom an earlier interview. General commentary, not about this crash, and not legal advice.

How we wrote this story

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Affected by an accident like this?

Here is what people in North Carolina usually need, in the order it comes up.

  1. Emergency care. Emergency rooms must check and stabilize you, even if you can't pay. The bill comes later.

  2. Your vehicle. Tow yards usually charge for every day a towed vehicle sits there.

  3. Crash report. The crash report is usually ready a few weeks after the crash, and you can still get it later.

  4. Hospital bills. Most hospitals have a program that cuts bills for people with low income, and you can apply months after the first bill.

  5. Insurance offer. You can turn down the insurer's first offer and ask for more.

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