Lincoln County, North Carolina — July 10, 2026 — According to Queen City News, the community is honoring the life of Tracy Mosteller, a respected youth coach, basketball referee, and dedicated volunteer who was killed in a head-on collision in the Iron Station area.

According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred along N.C. Highway 27 near Long Circle. Investigators say a 2001 Ford Expedition traveling west crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2016 Volvo. The Ford caught fire following the collision.

Mosteller, 59, of Vale, was driving the Volvo and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Ford, identified as 52-year-old Kevin Lee Long of Iron Station, sustained serious injuries and was flown to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte for treatment.

Fatal Highway 27 Crash  

Troopers continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities have indicated that impairment is believed to have been a contributing factor, and charges are expected after the investigation is complete.

In the days following the collision, members of the West Lincoln Optimist Club shared heartfelt tributes recognizing Mosteller’s lasting influence on the community. While many knew him as a familiar face officiating youth basketball games, friends and fellow volunteers described him as someone who invested countless hours encouraging young athletes and supporting local families.

The organization reflected on the positive example he set through years of service, noting that his commitment extended well beyond the basketball court. Community members also expressed their condolences to Mosteller’s family as they mourn the loss of a husband, father, relative, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the games he officiated.

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

Your Injury, Our Fight. How can we help you take a stand? Call 704-377-3737 or contact us online.

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.