Wilbar, North Carolina — A devastating collision early Wednesday morning has left the Wilkes County community heartbroken after a fatal crash on NC Highway 16 near Grindstone Lane claimed one life and critically injured another. The tragic incident occurred on October 22, 2025, around 6:30 a.m., and authorities continue to piece together the sequence of events that led to the deadly impact.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, 53-year-old Kelly Jordan Holleman of North Wilkesboro died at the scene after her vehicle collided head-on with another traveling in the opposite direction. The driver of the second vehicle, identified as 61-year-old Laurie Christine Uk of West Jefferson, sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem for emergency treatment.
Troopers reported that the collision happened as one of the vehicles crossed the centerline, leading to a violent impact that left both cars extensively damaged. First responders from Wilkes County Emergency Services arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Holleman could not be saved. The crash caused the temporary closure of both lanes of NC Highway 16 as investigators documented the scene and cleared the wreckage.
Authorities stated that weather conditions were clear at the time of the crash and the roadway was dry. There is no indication that impairment or distracted driving played a role, though speed and driver error remain under investigation. The State Highway Patrol’s Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing to review evidence, including vehicle data and eyewitness accounts, to determine the exact cause.
News of the tragedy spread quickly through the close-knit Wilkes County community, leaving friends, family, and neighbors in shock. Many residents described the crash site as a dangerous stretch of road where accidents have happened before, and some are calling for additional safety measures such as warning signs or reduced speed limits.
Those who knew Holleman remembered her as a kind, compassionate person who brought warmth and laughter to everyone around her. Friends shared memories of her dedication to her family, her faith, and her community, describing her passing as “a loss that words can’t capture.” Social media posts reflected an outpouring of grief, prayers, and condolences for her loved ones.
Meanwhile, the community is also rallying around the family of Laurie Uk as she continues to fight for her life in the hospital. Friends have begun organizing fundraisers to help cover her medical expenses and to show their support during this difficult time. Messages of hope and healing have flooded local forums as residents pray for her recovery.