Astoria, OR — A Gearhart man has died following a three-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 101 Saturday afternoon, according to Oregon State Police.
The crash occurred around 3:45 p.m. near milepost 32, just south of Cannon Beach. Authorities said the incident involved two motorcyclists who were attempting to pass a northbound vehicle by crossing into the southbound lane. As the motorcyclists tried to reenter the northbound lane, they collided with a southbound GMC Sierra.
The impact of the collision caused both motorcycles to lose control. The rider of one of the motorcycles, a man from Gearhart, was pronounced dead at the scene. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
The two motorcyclists and the driver of the GMC Sierra were the only people involved in the crash. The motorcyclists were attempting to overtake a third vehicle at the time of the accident.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash. No additional details have been released, including whether speed, alcohol, or other factors may have contributed to the collision.
U.S. Highway 101 was closed for several hours on Saturday afternoon while police and emergency responders worked at the scene. Traffic was rerouted as investigators processed the scene.
This tragic incident marks the latest in a series of fatal crashes on the popular highway, which sees high volumes of traffic year-round due to its scenic coastal route.
The Oregon State Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has further information to come forward as the investigation continues.
