Amador County – An Ione man was killed Monday afternoon when his motorcycle struck a vehicle driven by a Jackson man who reportedly misjudged the distance of the motorcycle and pulled into the man’s path on Highway 88 just west of Lower Ridge Road.

The Amador County Unit of the California Highway Patrol released details of the fatal crash Tuesday. The motorcycle driver, B. Gene Curry, 71, of Ione, suffered multiple severe traumatic fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by American Legion Ambulance personnel.

CHP in the release of details said at about 5:38 p.m. Monday, May 21, James Edward Church, 70, of Jackson was west-bound on Hgiohway 88, driving his 2009 Toyota Camry, west of Lower Ridge Road. CHP said Church “had slowed and pulled into the two-way left turn lane to enter into the Rainbow Bread store.”

Curry was traveling east-bound on his 2000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, toward Church, CHP said. “Church failed to properly judge the distance between himself and Mr. Curry and proceeded to make his left turn directly into the path of Mr. Curry and his Harley.”

CHP said: “Curry applied the brakes to his Harley Davidson but was unable to stop prior to striking the right side of the now broadside Toyota Camry.” Church sustained minor injuries and was checked by emergency medical service personnel at the scene.

CHP said the crash is still under investigation.

Story by Jim Reece This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.