70-year-old New Smyrna Beach resident killed in I-95 motorcycle crash

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A motorcyclist died in a New Smyrna Beach crash Thursday afternoon, according to Florida Highway Patrol troopers.

The single-vehicle accident happened on the Interstate 95 southbound ramp to State Road 44.

The 70-year-old victim, whose name hasn’t been released, was out riding with friends when he crashed. Investigators are trying to determine whether the rider lost control or had a mechanical problem.

Authorities said the victim is a New Smyrna Beach resident. He was not wearing a helmet.

Officials said it was the first fatal motorcycle crash this week, making it the first of Biketoberfest.

Police are stressing safety as Biketoberfest continues through the weekend.

"Anytime you're operating a motorcycle and you don't have a helmet on, of course it is legal to ride without a helmet, but it just ups your chances for a serious or fatal crash," said Sgt. Eugene Griffith of the New Smyrna Beach Police Department.

WFTV