Motorcyclist Killed in Head-On Collision with Tour Bus Near Big Water, Utah
A 45-year-old motorcyclist died after a head-on collision with a tour bus on U.S. Route 89, near Big Water, Utah, on Monday at 5:40 p.m., authorities said.
The crash occurred at milepost 1, approximately half a mile south of the Lone Rock turnoff. State troopers closed the highway for several hours as emergency crews cleared the scene and debris.
According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, the unidentified rider was heading north on a Yamaha motorcycle after crossing the Utah-Arizona border. A Van Hool tour bus carrying 29 passengers from the United Kingdom was traveling directly behind him, en route to Kanab.
Investigators reported that the motorcyclist attempted a U-turn from the right shoulder without yielding to the approaching bus. The vehicle struck the motorcycle head-on, ejecting the rider into the southbound lane. Emergency responders arrived shortly after, but the man was pronounced dead at 7 p.m., confirmed by Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Cameron Roden.
The motorcycle became wedged under the front bumper of the bus. Inspectors noted that, despite damage, the bus remained drivable. Paramedics transported the bus driver to a local hospital with minor injuries; none of the 29 tourists were hurt.
The accident caused significant traffic delays along U.S. 89. Emergency workers advised motorists to avoid the area or move over for emergency vehicles. By late Monday, UHP began alternating traffic through one open lane to alleviate congestion. The deceased’s identity is being withheld until next of kin are notified, and the investigation is ongoing.