Gilroy Man Identified In Fatal Motorcycle Crash On Highway 156

SAN BENITO COUNTY, CA — A Gilroy man who died in a fatal crash in San Benito County on Sunday afternoon when he turned against a red light has been identified, according to the San Benito County Sheriff's Office. Michael Gonzalez, 43, was riding on his 2015 Harley-Davidson with 29-year-old Gilroy resident Tiffany Gonzalez on his rear seat when he attempted to turn left onto northbound San Felipe Road when lights were not permitting, sheriff's Capt. Eric Taylor said.

Elisa Ahumada, 66, of Hollister, had already entered the intersection of state Highway 156 in her 2005 GMC Sierra when the motorcyclist turned on the red light around 4:10 p.m., CHP officials said.

CHP officials said Gonzalez tried to apply his brakes when he saw the SUV but ultimately could not avoid the collision.

Medical personnel pronounced the motorcyclist dead at the scene, CHP officials said. Tiffany Gonzalez suffered major injuries and was transported by medical helicopter to Natividad Medical Center.

Investigators have not determined why the motorcyclist turned against the light, CHP officials said.

Drugs or alcohol are not believed to be factors in the crash, according to the CHP.

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By Bay City News Service

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