Motorcyclist Dies in Westside Accident, Passenger Injured

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A man in his 60s lost his life and a woman was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident Thursday evening at the junction of Jones Road and Garden Street on the Westside, as reported by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.

The incident happened around 5:55 p.m. when a motorcycle going eastbound on Garden Street collided with an SUV making a left turn onto Jones Road, according to JSO. The SUV, driven by a woman in her mid-50s, directly turned into the motorcycle’s path, causing a severe impact on the SUV’s passenger side.

Both individuals on the motorcycle were ejected. The male rider was declared dead at the scene by Jacksonville Fire and Rescue. The female passenger was taken to a nearby hospital with serious injuries. The people in the SUV were unharmed.

JSO Sergeant Hungerford with the Traffic Homicide Unit confirmed during a press briefing that the investigation is ongoing, but initial evidence and video footage indicate the SUV turned in front of the motorcycle, which had the right of way.

“It’s still early in the investigation to determine fault,” Hungerford said. “But there was a left-hand turn in front of an oncoming vehicle, and that is fairly obvious based on video and scene evidence.”

Authorities said the man was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. It is unclear whether the woman was. Investigators are still determining whether helmet use could have significantly impacted the outcome.

The crash marks the 79th traffic fatality in Jacksonville this year and the 18th involving a motorcyclist.

Sergeant Hungerford offered a reminder for motorcyclists to wear helmets, dress in visible clothing, and remain alert, especially in intersections.

“Most of the motorcycle fatalities we see happen when a vehicle turns in front of a rider,” he said. “It’s critical to be visible and prepared for sudden movements from other vehicles.”

He also encouraged both new and seasoned riders to take advantage of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office’s free motorcycle safety courses, available at their North Campus. More information can be found on the JSO website under the “Riding School” section.

The intersection remained closed in all directions for about an hour following the crash as officers processed the scene and cleared debris.

No charges have been filed at this time. The driver of the SUV remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation.