Officials in the town of Old Fort, North Carolina, shared a touching tribute to a dump truck driver who lost his life when his brakes failed earlier this month.
The crash took place on the morning of June 17, 2025, as 65 year old Georgia resident Ralph Hibbert was making the six-mile decent on eastbound I-40 into Old Fort, North Carolina, as part of Hurricane Helene relief efforts.
Witnesses told police that Hibbert tried to apply his brakes but did not slow and was traveling at an estimated 75 to 80 m.p.h. when he took Exit 73 after reportedly bypassing truck escape ramps on the interstate. The dump truck crashed into a building under construction in the 500 block of Bat Cave Road and Hibbert was ejected, WLOS reports. He passed away at the scene.
Police confirmed to the outlet that the dump truck’s brakes failed.
No other vehicles were involved and no one else was injured.
On June 20, the Town of Old Fort shared a message in honor of Hibbert’s contributions to the community and heroic action to save others:
“In Loving Memory of Ralph Hibbert
Our community is heartbroken over the tragic loss of Ralph Hibbert, a skilled and respected truck driver with over 30 years of experience. Ralph lost his life this past Tuesday in a crash caused by brake failure — and in his final moments, he acted with incredible courage, steering away from others and preventing what could have been a far greater tragedy. His selfless actions were nothing short of heroic.
Ralph wasn’t just passing through — he has been here helping us recover and rebuild after the recent storms. He became a part of our town in the most meaningful way: through service, generosity, and heart.
Over the past few days, several community members have reached out to Town Hall asking how they might pay their respects. In response, we want everyone to know that you’re welcome to leave a token of remembrance — whether flowers, notes, or mementos — at the Arrowhead Fountain. This space will serve as a place for reflection and gratitude for Ralph’s life and bravery.
At this time, we have not yet been able to locate an official obituary or details about funeral services, but we will share any updates as we receive them.
Please continue to keep Ralph’s family and loved ones in your thoughts during this difficult time.
— Town of Old Fort
