Both riders were wearing helmets at the time of the crash; however, their excessive speeds are believed to have been a major factor in the cause and severity of the collision. Photo courtesy of California Highway Patrol

OROVILLE, CA (MPG) - On Tuesday, Nov. 11, at approximately 10:44 a.m., the Oroville Area California Highway Patrol received several reports of two motorcycle riders down on State Route 162 near Mistletoe Lane. Officers from the CHP - Oroville Area Office, along with deputies from the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, CAL FIRE/Butte County personnel and Butte County EMS, responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, emergency personnel located two riders who had been involved in separate motorcycle crashes, though preliminary investigation and witness statements indicate the riders were traveling together prior to the incident. Based on the initial investigation, both riders were traveling eastbound on SR-162 at a high rate of speed when they lost control and veered off the roadway onto the gravel shoulder. Due to their excessive speed, neither rider was able to regain control before colliding with a dirt embankment, resulting in both being ejected from their motorcycles.

Emergency crews immediately provided life-saving measures. One rider was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The second rider was airlifted to another hospital and remains in critical but stable condition.

Both riders were wearing helmets at the time of the crash; however, their excessive speeds are believed to have been a major factor in the cause and severity of the collision.

The identities of the riders are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The Butte County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office will release their names at a later time.

The CHP and responding emergency personnel extend their deepest condolences to the families and friends of those involved in this tragic incident.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or has additional information is encouraged to contact the Oroville Area CHP Dispatch at 530-332-1200 and reference Log# 251111CH0046.