[04-28-2024] Merced County, CA – 37-Year-Old Male Rider Killed After Motorcycle Rear-Ended Vehicle Along SR-165

A 37-year-old male rider was killed after his motorcycle rear-ended a vehicle in Merced County on Sunday night, April 28, 2024.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 9:30 p.m. on State Route 165 north of River Road and on a bridge that spans the Merced River.

Investigators said that 23-year-old Juan G. from Stevinson was driving a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban northbound on SR-165 at about 40 mph. At the same time, the rider, only identified as a 37-year-old man from Turlock, was on his 2019 Harley Davidson just behind. 

It is said that the motorcyclist was traveling at an unspecified but high rate of speed when his ride suddenly collided with the rear end of the Chevy. The impact of the collision threw the rider off the Merced River Bridge after he was ejected from his motorcycle.

Upon arrival, responders found the man at the bottom of the bridge lifeless. He had already succumbed to his injuries by the time rescuers arrived.

Meanwhile, the Chevy driver was not injured and remained at the scene to cooperate with the police. He was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash. 

No further details were immediately provided. The authorities are still looking into the possible factors that may have contributed to the fatal accident.

Investigations are underway.