Breaking News Overnight: Bradenton motorcyclist killed in Manatee County crash

In Summary:

A fatal motorcycle crash occurred at approximately 8:55 pm on October 14 on 30th Avenue West near 18th Street West in Manatee County. FHP said a 53-year-old Bradenton man failed to slow down before his Harley-Davidson struck the rear of a westbound Volkswagen Atlas. The motorcyclist died at the scene, while the SUV’s driver, a 39-year-old North Port woman, was not injured.

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A 53-year-old Bradenton man died Wednesday night after his motorcycle struck the rear of an SUV in Manatee County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred at approximately 8:55 pm on October 14 on 30th Avenue West near 18th Street West.

Troopers said the man was riding a Harley-Davidson Sportster 88 west on 30th Avenue West as he approached the intersection. A 39-year-old North Port woman was driving a Volkswagen Atlas west, directly ahead of the motorcycle.

According to FHP, the motorcyclist failed to slow down as he approached the SUV. The front of the motorcycle collided with the rear of the Volkswagen.

The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. The SUV driver was not injured, according to the release.

FHP did not release either driver's name or provide information about helmet use. The crash remains under investigation.

Five key points:

• The crash occurred at approximately 8:55 pm. October 14 on 30th Avenue West near 18th Street West.

• A 53-year-old Bradenton man was riding a Harley-Davidson Sportster 88 westbound.

• FHP said the rider failed to slow down and struck the rear of a Volkswagen Atlas traveling directly ahead.

• The motorcyclist died at the scene; the SUV’s driver, a 39-year-old North Port woman, was not injured.

• The crash remains under investigation.