On September 27, 2024, around midnight, a tragic motorcycle collision occurred on Artesia Boulevard, just east of Long Beach Boulevard in North Long Beach. According to a witness living nearby, he first heard loud motorcycles passing by and then, moments later, heard the sound of a crash. Upon rushing outside, he saw two Harley-type motorcycles had collided near a work van, with both riders down.
One of the motorcyclists, a male, was trapped under the van. Paramedics arrived quickly and pulled him out, administering CPR for approximately five minutes before he was pronounced dead at the scene. The second rider, also male, suffered leg injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital by Long Beach Fire Department personnel.
The witness mentioned hearing additional motorcycles earlier but did not see them at the crash site. Investigators suspect the motorcyclists may have made a U-turn into the closed eastbound lanes due to nearby construction before the crash occurred. Both directions of Artesia Boulevard were closed between Long Beach Boulevard and Muriel Avenue as authorities conducted their investigation.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of speeding, especially in construction zones, and serves as a reminder for all motorists to exercise caution on the road.