OMAHA, Neb. (Local News Wire) – Ryan Hay, co-founder of Omaha Bike Week, died early Thursday morning following a motorcycle accident involving a DUI driver.
The incident occurred around 2:41 a.m. on 144th Street when Bailey Burr, 31, reportedly made an illegal left turn and collided with Hay’s motorcycle. Hay was ejected from the vehicle and transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Burr now faces charges of Motor Vehicle Homicide and DUI.
Hay and co-founder Michael Allen initiated Omaha Bike Week in 2024, aiming to unite local motorcycle enthusiasts. In memory of Hay, his motorcycle has been placed outside the event venue as a tribute, and proceeds from the week’s activities, including raffles and merchandise sales, will support his family.
“All events for the rest of the week are in Ryan’s memory,” Allen stated.
Omaha Bike Week, featuring a car show set for Saturday, is ongoing and opens daily at 11 a.m. In light of the tragedy, Chris Wagner of Project Extra Mile emphasized the need to address alcohol-related crashes, stating nearly 70 Nebraskans die from such incidents each year.
The investigation into the crash continues, with no further details released at this time.