BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. (WSBT) — A 45-year-old man died after a motorcycle was rear-ended at U.S. 12 and Lubke Road.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene for a multi-vehicle accident at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Thursday.
The motorcyclist, a resident of Niles, suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital in Michigan City, where he later succumbed to severe head trauma.
Authorities said the identity of the motorcycle driver will be released following notification of next of kin.
According to witnesses, the motorcycle was nearly stopped westbound on U.S. 12, with its left turn signal activated, preparing to turn onto Lubke Road. A 39-year-old woman from Missouri, driving a westbound minivan, struck the motorcycle, ejecting the rider. The minivan subsequently lost control, crossing the center line and colliding with a third vehicle.
The minivan driver sustained minor injuries but refused treatment on-site. The driver of the third vehicle reported no injuries.
Police noted that the motorcycle operator was not wearing a helmet. Authorities do not believe drugs or alcohol played a role in the incident.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing.