A motorcycle crash in Miller County, Missouri, claimed the life of a 70-year-old Bowie, Texas man on Friday night.
According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report, the incident occurred at approximately 10:24 p.m. on Missouri 242 at the U.S. 54 connector. The motorcycle left the roadway, struck a curb, and went down an embankment, resulting in the driver being ejected.
The man, who was wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene at 11 p.m. Authorities reported that next of kin has been notified. This marks the fifth fatal motorcycle crash recorded by Highway Patrol Troop F in September and the 47th overall in 2023.
Emergency responders from the Lake Ozark Police Department and Fire Department assisted at the scene. The crash occurred during Bikefest, a popular event at the Lake of the Ozarks which began on Tuesday and concludes on Sunday.
In light of the event, the Osage Beach Police Department urged motorists to remain vigilant for motorcycles, emphasizing that they can be difficult to see, particularly with an influx of riders on the roads. The department also noted that large gatherings may attract inexperienced drivers, stressing the importance of safety for all participants.