Holly Springs, North Carolina – A tragic late-night crash in Holly Springs has now led to murder charges for a 16-year-old driver whom police say was intoxicated, speeding, and driving recklessly before he struck and killed 14-year-old Max Dunham. The teen suspect, Ashton Rahlfs, was already facing impaired-driving charges, but investigators say new evidence shows his actions were severe enough to warrant upgraded charges.
Incident Overview
Holly Springs authorities said the crash occurred around 1:40 a.m. on Oct. 26, when Ashton Rahlfs, who allegedly held only a learner’s permit, drove his Honda Passport SUV into Max Dunham, who had been riding his bike. Police said Dunham died at the scene due to the impact.
According to officials, Rahlfs did not stop after the first collision. Instead, he crossed the roadway and slammed head-on into a Honda Civic driven by 20-year-old Brandon Russell, leaving Russell trapped inside his vehicle and seriously injured.
Timeline of Events
Police reports state that Rahlfs was speeding at more than twice the posted 35 mph limit. Investigators also allege his blood alcohol content measured 0.11, well above the legal limit despite him being underage.
Before the crash, Rahlfs had reportedly been “driving carelessly and recklessly for a significant time,” according to the Holly Springs Police Department.
Authorities later discovered multiple cans of Twisted Tea, both opened and unopened, inside the SUV. Court documents also revealed that two additional teenagers were riding with Rahlfs at the time of the fatal incident.
Witness Accounts
One of the most chilling eyewitness statements came from Lynwood Montague, who lives just steps from the crash site. Montague told reporters he was watching TV when he heard a violent sound outside.
“I heard this loud crash,” Montague said. “I got up, went outside and was looking around, and all of a sudden I heard the worst screaming I have ever heard, and moaning. And I just knew it was bad.”
Montague immediately called 911 as the severity of the situation unfolded in front of him.
Details From Police and Officials
Investigators say Rahlfs’ decision to drive while intoxicated, especially with only a learner’s permit, significantly escalated the danger on the road. Police stated that Dunham was riding legally on his bike when he was struck with force described by officers as “catastrophic.”
After hitting Dunham, Rahlfs’ Honda Passport crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with Russell’s Honda Civic. Firefighters had to extricate Russell from the crushed vehicle before rushing him to the hospital, where he remains in serious condition.
Key Facts in the Case
Authorities outlined a long list of charges after a Wake County grand jury issued indictments nearly a month after the crash. Rahlfs is now charged with:
- Second-degree murder
- Death by vehicle
- Serious injury by vehicle
- Driving while impaired
- Driving after consuming alcohol under 21
- Violating learner’s permit restrictions
- Multiple related misdemeanors
Rahlfs is currently being held at the Wake County Jail without bond. His next court appearance is set for Dec. 1.
Additional Context: Underage Drinking and Road Safety
This case has renewed conversations about the dangers of underage drinking and impaired driving, especially among teens who lack full driving experience. Safety experts emphasize that alcohol significantly reduces reaction time, increases risky behavior, and makes fatal outcomes far more likely.
Impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of teen-related fatalities in the United States. Approximately one in five teen drivers involved in fatal crashes have alcohol in their system, according to national traffic safety data.
Parents and community leaders in North Carolina have already begun raising concerns, urging stricter enforcement of underage drinking laws and more education programs aimed at preventing future tragedies.
Community Safety and Awareness
Authorities continue to warn that even small amounts of alcohol can have serious effects on young drivers. They also recommend that parents stay actively involved in guiding teens who hold learner’s permits, reinforcing safe driving habits and ensuring strict supervision.
Residents in Holly Springs say the incident has shaken their community, reminding everyone how quickly impaired driving can destroy multiple lives.
Conclusion
As Ashton Rahlfs, just 16 years old, prepares to face murder charges in court, the community continues to mourn the loss of 14-year-old Max Dunham and hopes for the recovery of Brandon Russell. The case stands as a devastating reminder of the consequences of underage drinking and reckless driving.
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