Bicyclist Fatally Struck by Jeep in Cherokee County; Driver Facing Charges, Officials Say

Cherokee County, North Carolina — November 4, 2025 — According to ABC 13 News and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a bicyclist lost her life following a collision with a Jeep.

Authorities say the crash happened on Airport Road in Marble. Trooper E.J. Watson responded to the scene, where investigators determined that 48-year-old Helen Runge, of Marble, was traveling west on her bicycle when she was struck by a 2005 Jeep driven by 46-year-old Christopher Searcy, also of Marble.

A medical examiner arrived at the scene to conduct an initial examination before an autopsy was scheduled. Officials confirmed that Runge’s family has been notified of her passing.

Investigators said Searcy was taken into custody and charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and driving while license revoked. He also consented to a blood test as part of the ongoing investigation.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.

At Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt, our experienced Charlotte personal injury attorneys are committed to helping crash victims and their families navigate the legal process.

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Notes: Our team created this post using secondary sources and has not independently verified all the facts surrounding the accident. If you find any incorrect details, please contact Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt so we can update the post with the most accurate information. This post will be removed if requested.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice and is not a solicitation for business. The photograph used in this post is not representative of this accident. If you are injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately, then speak to a North Carolina personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.