Rigby man dies in early morning motorcycle crash

RIGBY, Idaho — A Rigby man is dead following a single-vehicle motorcycle crash in the early hours of Tuesday morning on U.S. Highway 20, according to law enforcement officials.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the crash occurred at approximately 5:45 a.m. near the Menan-Annis exit. The victim, a 42-year-old male, was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a press release, the Sheriff’s Office stated that the man was riding a 2018 Harley-Davidson motorcycle eastbound when, for reasons currently under investigation, he failed to negotiate a curve. The motorcycle left the right-hand side of the roadway, and the rider was ejected.

“Deputies and emergency medical personnel from Central Fire District were on scene within minutes, but the injuries sustained by the rider were fatal,” said Sheriff’s Capt. Sam Smith. “He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.”

Eastbound lanes of U.S. 20 were closed for approximately four hours as the Idaho State Police assisted Jefferson County with accident reconstruction. Traffic was detoured onto county roads, causing significant delays for morning commuters. All lanes were reopened to traffic shortly before 10 a.m.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Officials have not yet indicated if speed or other factors are being considered.

“Our deputies are conducting a thorough investigation to piece together the moments leading up to this tragic incident,” Capt. Smith added. “Our deepest condolences are with the victim’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”

The name of the deceased is being withheld pending the full notification of next of kin.