Motorcyclist dies near Pioche

A man leading a group of motorcycle riders with the Knights of Columbus was killed in an accident June 18 about 40 miles north of Pioche on U.S. Highway 93.

Sheriff Kerry Lee said James Wright, 71, of Cottonwood, Ariz., was the lead rider of a group heading north about 1 p.m., when he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed off the highway, and suffered major internal injuries. He was wearing a helmet.

Lee said one of the traveling group was a retired firefighter who administered first aid until rescue units arrived, and about half an hour later had started CPR.

Meadow Valley ambulance and Fire Department was dispatched, but injuries were serious enough Flight for Life in St. George, Utah, was called.

The victim was taken to meet Flight for Life at the Bristol Wells Junction. CPR was performed for about 90 minutes, but the victim failed to respond and was pronounced dead about 2:45 p.m.

Lee said the cause of the accident in unknown, but the Nevada Highway Patrol Fatal Team from Ely is investigating. He said high gusty winds along the highway may have been a factor.