Man in critical condition after being struck by 18-wheeler while riding his ATV

An ATV driver was hit at intersection of Shipyard and Carolina Beach Road shortly after 1:00 a.m. Wednesday morning by an 18-wheeler truck.

The victim has been identified as 32-year-old Ronny Ballard of Wilmington.

He was transported to New Hanover Regional Medical Center for his injuries and is in critical condition.

Wilmington police are investigating the accident. It’s not clear why Ballard was riding his ATV in the road, but it’s illegal to drive them on public streets under most circumstances.