Motorcyclist killed in crash after short pursuit in Johnston County, troopers say

CLAYTON, N.C. (WTVD) -- A 21-year-old motorcyclist was killed late Saturday night following a short pursuit in Johnston County, authorities said.

According to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy attempted to stop a motorcyclist around 11:55 p.m. along Clayton Boulevard in the town of Clayton for speeding and running a red light.

Officials said the driver did not stop, prompting a brief pursuit.

The motorcyclist, later identified as John Cutler Murray, 21, of Archers Lodge, continued speeding onto Powhatan Road.

Authorities said Murray lost control as he approached the intersection of Powhatan Road and Harrison Road. He failed to navigate a curve, crossed the centerline and ran off the road to the left.

Investigators say he was thrown from the motorcycle and struck a telephone box and a small tree in the yard of a home on Harrison Road.

The deputy briefly lost sight of the motorcycle but came upon the crash scene moments later and began rendering aid until emergency crews arrived. Murray was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Officials said the motorcyclist was also involved in a hit-and-run crash involving property damage only during the pursuit within Clayton. That incident is being handled by Clayton police.

Authorities say speed and alcohol are believed to be contributing factors.

The crash happened within the town limits of Wilson’s Mills, and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol is leading the investigation. Multiple agencies, including the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, Clayton Police Department and Wilson’s Mills Police Department, assisted.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the North Carolina State Highway Patrol in Johnston County at 919-934-2186 or 919-733-4400.