Police: Passenger Tried To Take Control In Fatal Motorcycle Crash
SOLON TOWNSHIP (WWJ) - Authorities are investigating a fatal motorcycle accident in which a passenger tried to take control of the bike after the driver became unresponsive.
The accident happened around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday on 18 Mile Road just east of Simmons Avenue in Solon Township, located about 25 miles north of Grand Rapids.
Police say a 63-year-old man was driving a motorcycle westbound on 18 Mile Road, with his wife as a passenger, when the bike started to slow down. The wife told police that her husband became unresponsive and fell forward, so she reached forward and attempted to gain control of the motorcycle.
Despite her efforts, the motorcycle left the roadway and crashed into the ditch.
Passing motorists stopped after the crash and started CPR efforts until emergency crews arrived. Paramedics attempted to revive the man, but there was nothing they could do. He was declared dead at the scene. The wife was not injured.
Police say both the man and his wife were wearing helmets. Speed and alcohol do not appear to be factors, according to police.
Investigators say the man appears to have suffered a medical condition prior to the crash. An autopsy is expected to determine a cause of death.
The crash remains under investigation.