Motorcyclist Dies in Crash South of McMinnville

Crash scene on Lafayette Highway Photo Courtesy: Oregon State Police

(McMinnville) - A Forest Grove man died Tuesday morning after his motorcycle was involved in a traffic crash with a vehicle turning left off of Lafayette Highway south of McMinnville.

Police say that at approximately 6:00 AM, a 1992 Ford van driven by 58-year old Nicholas E. Bartlette of Lebanon, was northbound on LaFayette Highway and began to make a left turn onto SE String Town Road directly in front of a southbound 2003 Harley Davidson motorcycle.

The motorcycle, operated by 47-year old Frederick "Rick" Braun of Forest Grove, crashed into the side of the van.

Braun, who was wearing a full face helmet and protective riding gear, was ejected from the motorcycle and came to rest in the southbound lane. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Bartlette received minor injuries but declined medical treatment at the scene. Police say he was wearing safety restraints.

Oregon State Police troopers from the McMinnville office are completing the investigation. ODOT and members of the Yamhill County Multi-agency traffic team assisted at the scene.