🚨 Dump Truck Driver Who Killed Four Linemen Was Operating Without a CDL

A deadly construction zone crash in Eden, North Carolina has left four utility workers dead and several others injured — and now investigators have confirmed that the dump truck driver involved was operating without a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The incident occurred on the morning of April 24, 2025, as a crew of linemen contracted by Duke Energy was performing routine electrical work on the roadside. A city-owned dump truck, driven by 66-year-old Michael Ray Vernon, reportedly ran a stop sign and crashed into the crew.

picture FOX8

⚠️ Four Dead, Two Critically Injured

Of the six people struck by the dump truck:

• Four linemen were killed at the scene:

  • Douglas Garland Sides, 71

  • William Evans, 35

  • Madison Carter, 32

  • Matthew Lockwood, 30

• Two others were airlifted with life-threatening injuries

• One additional worker in a bucket truck sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital

The victims were members of a team performing contracted work for Duke Energy, and the loss has deeply impacted both the local utility community and the town of Eden.

❌ No CDL — But Behind the Wheel of a City Dump Truck

Further investigation revealed that Michael Ray Vernon did not hold a valid CDL, a requirement for operating the city-owned dump truck involved in the crash. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, all drivers operating vehicles over 26,001 lbs or vehicles designed to transport hazardous materials or 16+ passengers must possess an active and valid CDL.

Instead, Vernon — an employee of the City of Eden — was operating the vehicle in violation of both state and federal commercial driving laws.

⚖️ Criminal Charges Filed

This week, Vernon met with investigators at the Rockingham County magistrate’s office, where he was formally charged with:

• One count of failure to stop at a stop sign

• One count of operating a commercial vehicle without a valid CDL

• Four misdemeanor counts of death by motor vehicle

He is currently being held on a $50,000 unsecured bond.

🛑 Industry Wake-Up Call

This tragedy serves as a devastating reminder of the importance of CDL compliance and proper training for all commercial vehicle operators — public or private. The fact that a municipal vehicle was operated by someone lacking the legal qualifications to do so raises serious concerns about internal controls, driver vetting, and oversight within government fleet operations.

Municipalities and private fleets alike are reminded that

• CDL requirements are non-negotiable — regardless of age, tenure, or employment type

• Vehicle use for official duty does not exempt drivers from licensing laws

• Negligence in hiring or oversight can result in both civil and criminal liability

🕯️ Remembering the Victims

The team at Safety Lane Magazine and CellEx Consulting Group extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and coworkers of the four linemen lost in this horrific event. Their dedication to public service and infrastructure maintenance will not be forgotten.

CellEx Consulting Group: "Compliance saves lives. Oversight matters. No CDL, no wheel."

Stay safe. Stay qualified. Stay informed — with Safety Lane Magazine.