HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C. — The Holly Springs community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 14-year-old Max Dunham, who was killed in a traffic collision early Sunday morning while riding his bicycle. According to the Holly Springs Police Department, the incident occurred around 1:40 a.m. on Avent Ferry Road near Holly Meadow Drive, involving two vehicles — a 2008 Honda Civic and a 2021 Honda Passport — and the young bicyclist.
Emergency responders arrived to find the aftermath of a devastating crash. Authorities determined that Dunham was struck during the collision between the two vehicles. The driver of the Honda Civic and a passenger in the Honda Passport were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while Dunham was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Police believe the chain reaction began when one of the cars made contact with the bicyclist, triggering a head-on collision between the vehicles.
On Monday morning, the Wake County Public School System identified the victim as a ninth-grade student at Holly Springs High School. In a letter to families, Principal Gary Duvall expressed condolences, writing, “It is with great sadness that I share that one of our students, ninth-grader Max Dunham, passed away on Sunday. Our condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to his family and friends.”
Authorities later identified the driver of the Honda Passport as 16-year-old Ashton Henry Rahlfs, who was arrested and charged with driving while impaired. Court records show that his blood alcohol concentration measured 0.11, exceeding the legal limit of 0.08%. Rahlfs also faces charges for underage drinking and driving, as well as violating level 2 driving restrictions, which prohibit unsupervised driving after 9 p.m. and carrying passengers under 21. He was released to a family member under a written promise to appear in court in November.
In response to the tragedy, Holly Springs High School has made grief counseling available to students and staff. The school is partnering with Transitions GriefCare and Alliance Health, which provides a 24-hour crisis line at 1-877-233-4617, to offer emotional support and mental health services to those affected. Principal Duvall encouraged parents to be attentive to any emotional changes in their children and to seek professional help if needed.
As the Holly Springs Police Department continues its investigation, residents have expressed deep sorrow and unity in support of the Dunham family. The tragedy has renewed community conversations about teen driving safety, road awareness, and responsible behavior behind the wheel. Students and staff remember Max as a kind and promising young man whose warmth and spirit will never be forgotten.