Man charged with death after striking trooper with box truck on HWY 150

Investigators say that William Benton, 24, of Lexington, was driving a box truck southbound on NC 150 while Deputy Auston Reudelhuber, 32, of Lexington, was driving a marked Forsyth County Sheriff patrol vehicle northbound on NC 150. The box truck went left of center and collided head-on with the patrol car.

Davidson County Sheriff’s Office released the following statement:

It is with sincere sadness that the Davidson County Sheriff's Office has learned of the loss of the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office. In these days we will NEVER understand why the path we are on ends and leads us in another direction. Our thoughts and many prayers go out to the family of Deputy Auston Smith Reudelhuber as well as his friends and colleagues who have shared many precious memories. RIP, you are a hero and will forever be remembered as one. Fly high dear friend!

At around 5:22 a.m. on Saturday, state troopers came to the area of NC 150 and Rob Shoaf Road after getting a report of a crash involving a Forsyth County deputy. As a result of the crash, both vehicles went off the road to the right and came to a stop on the southbound shoulder of NC 150.

Reudelhuber was taken to a local hospital where he later died as a result of his injuries. Benton suffered no injuries as a result of the crash.

Benton is being charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle, reckless driving and driving left of center.

According to the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Sheriff II Auston Smith Reudelhuber joined the FCSO on March 29, 2021. Deputy Reudelhuber was assigned to the Field Services Division and Field Training Officer. Prior to his service with FSCSO Deputy Reudelhuber was employed by the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office for over three years, He served in the United States Army for six years active duty and was currently serving as a reserve.

Condolences are being shared on social media. Funeral arrangements are pending.