Witnesses: Local barber killed in motorcycle crash at 73rd and Capitol

Witnesses say barber killed in motorcycle crash in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee police are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that happened at 73rd and Capitol on Thursday afternoon, Aug. 30.

The crash involved the motorcycle and a vehicle.

A 42-year-old Milwaukee man died at the scene as a result of his injuries. Witnesses indicated the victim is a local barber in the area.

"It happened in the blink of an eye. It's just a little sickening to see this type of situation, you know?" said Jerry Jones, witness.

Jerry Jones

Jones was driving on Appleton around 1:30 p.m. Thursday.

"I just saw the guy coming around the corner, and the driver of the car was going into the BP gas station and the guy on the motorcycle -- it was just a tragic accident and he accidentally crashed into him," said Jones.

Jones said speed may have been a factor, but the bike wasn't out of control.

"It's not like he was going 80-90 miles-per-hour, but I'd say 50 at least," said Jones.

The crash was shocking to those who knew the victim.

Jeffrey Carter

"I just seen him like around 1 o'clock and he was supposed to cut my hair. I can say my prayers are going to be with the family," said Jeffrey Carter.

Crowds gathered at the busy intersection as investigators pieced the scene back together.

The driver of the vehicle involved in the accident stayed at the scene -- and is cooperating with police.

It happened with thousands of motorcyclists in Milwaukee for Harley-Davidson's 115th anniversary celebration -- but this tragedy was unrelated. Witnesses said it could've ended differently.

"The only thing that I would say is that if you're going to ride motorcycle, ride with a helmet," said Jones.

The investigation is ongoing. At this point, it's unclear who was at fault.