Woman charged in deadly Western North Carolina motorcycle crash

Jennifer Louise Saylor faces charges after collision that killed 27-year-old Tylor Russell Holzhauser

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A 56-year-old woman has been charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and unsafe movement after a collision in Asheville, North Carolina that left a 27-year-old motorcyclist dead earlier this month. The crash occurred on February 13 when the woman's 2013 Toyota Prius attempted to turn left from New Leicester Highway onto Eliada Home Road and struck the southbound 2024 Kawasaki ER650 motorcycle operated by Tylor Russell Holzhauser, who was ejected from the bike and died at the scene.

Why it matters

Motorcycle crashes are a major public safety concern, especially in areas with high traffic volumes like Asheville. This incident highlights the need for all drivers to be vigilant and follow traffic laws to prevent such tragic outcomes.

The details

According to police, the crash occurred around 4:23 p.m. on February 13 at the intersection of New Leicester Highway and Eliada Home Road in west Asheville. The preliminary investigation indicates that Holzhauser's motorcycle was traveling southbound on New Leicester Highway when it struck Saylor's Prius as she attempted to turn left onto Eliada Home Road. Holzhauser was ejected from the motorcycle and died before first responders arrived. Saylor was later charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and unsafe movement following a consultation with the Buncombe County District Attorney's Office.

  • The crash occurred around 4:23 p.m. on February 13, 2026.
  • New Leicester Highway was closed for over an hour while officers worked the scene.

The players

Tylor Russell Holzhauser

A 27-year-old motorcyclist who was killed in the crash.

Jennifer Louise Saylor

The 56-year-old driver of the Toyota Prius who has been charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and unsafe movement.

Asheville Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the crash and conducted the investigation.

Buncombe County District Attorney's Office

The office that consulted with police and determined the charges against Saylor.

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What’s next

Saylor is scheduled to appear in court on March 5th to face the charges.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of all drivers, whether in cars or on motorcycles, remaining vigilant and obeying traffic laws to prevent such devastating crashes from occurring.