On the afternoon of September 7, Pima County deputies responded to a motor vehicle collision involving two motorcycles on Bopp Road, west of Kinney Road, in which speed and alcohol may have been contributing factors.
Michael Bell, age 53, and an unidentified friend were riding their motorcycles westbound on Bopp Road from Kinney Road. A third motorcycle, ridden by 59-year-old Sherman Kidd Jr., was also westbound on Bopp Road behind Mr. Bell and his friend. He was travelling at a high rate of speed and passing cars in a no passing zone.
When Mr. Kidd’s motorcycle reached Mr. Bell’s motorcycle, the two collided, causing both riders to lose control and crash.
Mr. Kidd and Mr. Bell were transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment with life-threatening injuries. Mr. Bell was pronounced deceased at the hospital, and Mr. Kidd is in serious condition.
Mr. Kidd and Mr. Bell were not wearing helmets. The person riding with Mr. Bell apparently did not stop following the collision. The Sheriff’s Department Traffic Unit responded and took over the investigation. The Traffic Unit utilized the latest technology to diagram the collision scene. It consisted of the Leica Scan Station in conjunction with the Leica Global Positioning System, which were acquired with the cooperation of the Pima County Attorney’s Office.
Traffic Unit investigators would like to speak to the person who was riding with Mr. Bell. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call 9-1-1 or 88-CRIME
