Milwaukee police say a 32-year-old motorcyclist was fatally injured Wednesday evening when an SUV turned into his path near Teutonia and Finn. First responders rushed the rider to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The SUV driver was taken into custody as detectives opened an investigation into the crash.
According to a Milwaukee Police Department press release posted on Urban Milwaukee, a 27-year-old driver heading south on N. Teutonia Avenue began a left-hand turn at about 6:40 p.m., crossing into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. Investigators say the rider lost control and hit the SUV, suffering severe injuries that proved fatal.
The department stated that “Impairment does not appear to be a factor,” and said the SUV driver was taken into custody while potential charges are reviewed by the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office. Detectives are continuing to gather witness statements and video to determine exactly how the collision unfolded, according to Urban Milwaukee.
Investigation and Witness Requests
As reported by CBS58, Milwaukee police are asking anyone who saw the crash or has video of it to contact the department or Crime Stoppers. The station notes that investigators will submit any possible charges to the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office for review.
Local Pattern of Motorcycle Crashes
This incident is the latest fatal motorcycle wreck in Milwaukee this month. Hoodline previously covered a July 4 Riverwest crash and an I-794 wall crash that also left riders dead.
Safety Reminders
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation stresses rider training and urges drivers to watch for motorcycles, especially at intersections, as part of its statewide safety campaigns. WisDOT's “Safety First” materials describe engineering, enforcement and education strategies aimed at cutting serious crashes, according to WisDOT.
Officials have not yet released the names of either the rider or the SUV driver, according to CBS58. Police again asked anyone with information or video of the incident to contact Milwaukee police as the investigation continues.
