Today at approximately 1:20 p.m., state troopers responded to a fatal motorcycle crash on Highway 126, about 19 miles south of U.S. 285 in Jefferson County.

The investigation thus far has revealed that a pack of approximately six motorcycles were traveling southbound on Highway 126 when a motorcycle near the back of the pack lost control while negotiating a curve. The vehicle went down on its side causing moderate injuries to the driver. That bike was subsequently struck by another motorcycle following behind.

The rider of the trailing motorcycle was ejected over a guardrail and sustained massive injuries. The rider, a 24 year-old female, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, but it appears as though speed was a contributing factor. Alcohol does not appear to be involved.

Names of those involved are being withheld pending the notification of family.