Fatal motorcycle crash near Meech Lake, speed suspected, victim unlicensed

Tashi Farmilo

A 30-year-old motorcyclist from Gatineau died in a tragic accident near 420 Chemin du Lac Meech on Sunday evening, September 15. The accident occurred at approximately 6:37 pm when the motorcyclist, travelling westbound, lost control of the bike and crashed into an embankment. Despite efforts by bystanders, who attempted CPR at the scene, the victim was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Police investigators have revealed that the motorcyclist had just left a nearby parking area moments before the crash. "The hypothesis that is most likely at this moment is speed," said Sergeant Martin Fournel, Prevention and Community Relations Officer at the MRC des Collines-de-l'Outaouais police department. Investigators confirmed that the victim did not have a valid driver’s licence and that the motorcycle had been borrowed the day before the accident.

A mechanical inspection of the motorcycle is planned to determine whether any faults in the bike contributed to the crash. Blood samples were also taken, a standard procedure in fatal accidents, to determine if drugs or alcohol were factors, though results are expected to take several months.

This accident adds to a worrying trend in the region. "Since April 1, we’ve already had 17 motorcycle accidents," Fournel noted. "Most of them involved cyclists losing control and, unfortunately, this latest incident resulted in a fatality."

Sgt. Fournel urged caution for motorcyclists, pointing out that drivers are more vulnerable due to the lack of protection. "You’re more likely to get injured because of the size and lack of protection on a motorcycle," he said, advising them to be aware of road conditions and the dangers of excessive speed.

The investigation into this fatal crash remains ongoing, with police continuing to gather evidence and assess the circumstances surrounding the accident.