An alleged drunk driver struck two motorcyclists overnight on Route 24 in Taunton, Massachusetts, leaving one dead and the other critically injured, police say.
Massachusetts State Police say troopers responded to the southbound side of the highway around 2:30 a.m. for a crash involving a Lexus Sedan and two motorcycles.
According to police, a preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of the Lexus, identified as 35-year-old Fred Moreira, of New Bedford, was operating under the influence of liquor when his vehicle hit two motorcycles, causing both men to be thrown from their bikes.
Police say 30-year-old Tyler Moniz, of Fall River, was operating the first motorcycle, a Yamaha R1, when he was ejected into the woodline where he hit the trees on the side of the highway. Moniz was pronounced dead on scene.
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The second man, identified only as a 39-year-old from Fall River, was driving a Yamaha V-Star 1100 when he was hit by the Lexus. He was taken to Rhode Island Hospital with life-threatening injuries, police said. There was no update on his condition Saturday afternoon.
Moreira was arrested at the scene. He's facing several charges including vehicular homicide, operating under the influence of liquor, and negligent operation of a motor vehicle.
There were closures in the area following the fatal wreck. All lanes were reopened by 6 a.m., police said.
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Moreira is scheduled to be arranged in Taunton District Court. It was not immediately clear if he had obtained an attorney.
An investigation into the crash is ongoing.
