Motorcycle Collision Kills 23-Year-Old in Silver City, Roadway Closed for Investigation
SILVER CITY, NM — A motorcycle accident on U.S. 180 East near Superior Street claimed the life of a Silver City man on March 1, 2024, at approximately 3:15 p.m.
According to the Silver City Police Department, Gino Vannatter, 23, crashed into a 2006 Toyota van driven by 85-year-old Gumersindo Estevez after the van attempted a left turn onto the highway. Vannatter was not wearing a helmet and was ejected from the motorcycle, suffering critical injuries.
Emergency medical personnel transported Vannatter to Gila Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. Both Estevez and his passenger, 69-year-old Francesca Estevez, were treated for minor injuries and reported in good condition.
The crash closed the eastbound lanes of U.S. 180 for about three hours, causing traffic delays of up to one mile. Witnesses reported seeing Vannatter accelerate shortly before the collision, while Estevez stated he did not see or hear the motorcycle until the crash occurred.
No charges or citations have been issued, and the incident is under investigation, police said.
— Juno Ogle