Harley Laughlin ID’d as Driver Killed in Orange County Motorcycle Crash on Highway 87 near Bridge City

Orange County, Texas (May 19, 2022) – The driver who died Thursday morning in a motorcycle accident near Bridge City in Orange County has been identified as Harley Laughlin, 32, of Buna.

According to a report by the Texas Department of Public Safety, the deadly crash happened at around 6:30 a.m. on Texas Highway 87 at Gaylynn Drive, just north of Texas 62.

William Wantuck, 46, of Orange, was riding his motorcycle northbound on Texas Highway 87 when a Dodge SUV pulled onto the highway from Gaylynn Drive.

The motorcycle then hit the SUV. The impact caused the SUV to overturn and land on its roof.

Wantuck was declared deceased at the scene.

The driver of the SUV, now identified as Laughlin, and a juvenile passenger were transported to Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont, where Laughlin later died. Another juvenile passenger did not suffer any injuries.

No further details about the collision were immediately provided.

The accident remains under investigation.

Common Causes of Automobile Accidents

There are many different reasons why automobile, 18-wheeler, and motorcycle accidents occur, including driver negligence, driver inattention, texting and driving, speeding, fatigue, failure to yield the right of way from a stop sign or private drive, running a red light, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While the factors listed above are the main causes of most accidents, there may also be other factors involved, which is why it’s important that an investigation be conducted before evidence disappears, especially in cases involving a fatality.  At Joel A. Gordon & Associates, we will act quickly to secure accident scene photos, interview witnesses, obtain police records, and secure other valuable evidence needed to win your case.  Call now for a free consultation.

To speak with an attorney Click to call: 281-943-5555.