Fatal Motorcycle Accident on SR-89 Near Utah Border
At approximately 5:40 p.m. on May 25, 2026, a fatal collision occurred involving a motorcycle and a tour bus on SR-89, just north of the Arizona-Utah border.
A 45-year-old male motorcycle rider, Joseph Johnston of Gloucester, MA, was reportedly attempting a U-turn when he failed to yield to a northbound Vanhool tour bus carrying 29 passengers. The motorcycle was struck on its left side, resulting in Johnston being ejected into the southbound lanes, where he sustained fatal injuries.
The tour bus skidded to a stop facing westbound on the left shoulder, with the motorcycle trapped underneath its front right bumper. The driver of the bus was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries and was released shortly after. Two other passengers on the bus reported minor bumps but were not transported for further medical assistance.
Authorities closed the #2 southbound lane for approximately five hours to clear the scene and conduct an investigation. The incident highlights the importance of yielding practices and safe maneuvering on busy roadways.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.