Esmeralda County, CA (May 22, 2024) A wave of sadness swept through Esmeralda County on Saturday, May 18th, as news spread of an accident that killed three motorcyclists. 52-year-old Tonopah resident, Benny Hall, 54-year-old Linton resident, Frank Wrinkler and 71-year-old Goldfield resident, Jeffery Hicks all lost their lives. The wrong-way collision occurred right at 12:30 p.m. on US-95, not far from mile marker 16.
A group of motorcyclists were traveling south along US-95 on Saturday afternoon. At the same time, a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu sedan was heading north on US-95. For reasons still unknown, the Chevy drifted over the double yellow lines on the highway and continued driving north in the southbound lanes, according to reports. The Vehicle collided with the rear fender of a Harley-Davidson tricycle and then went on to hit several other motorcycles in the group. The Chevy then hit a Honda Pilot on the passenger side before stopping in the southbound lane of traffic.
Police officers and paramedics hurried to the scene and arrived to find a picture of chaos. Several motorcycles were down, the Honda Pilot sat in the middle of the road with significant damage and the Malibu was partially blocking the southbound lane. Paramedics hurried to the motorcyclists who were on the ground, ready to give each one medical attention. Unfortunately, three of the motorcyclists were unresponsive. With heavy hearts, authorities pronounced them dead at the scene and called for a coroner, covering their bodies with tarps. A fourth motorcyclist was seriously injured and flown from the scene to a nearby hospital for treatment. The driver of the Malibu was also flown to a hospital with significant injuries. Finally, the passenger in the Honda sustained minor injuries in the accident.
Officers had to close the highway as they waited for the coroner and investigated the accident. They spoke with those involved in the collision and gathered as much information as they could find. They are determined to learn what caused the Malibu to drift into oncoming traffic. Crews worked for quite a while to remove the glass and debris from the roadway and officers had to call tow trucks to haul the Malibu from the scene, as well as several motorcycles.
Everyone at Accident News Now is heartbroken over this news. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the three motorcyclists who were so senselessly killed in this accident. If you or someone you know has been affected by this collision, our team of legal representatives is here to help.
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