FRANKLIN COUNTY, Idaho — Officials have released the identity of a 21-year-old Preston man who died Friday afternoon after his motorcycle collided with a tractor-trailer on State Street near the Utah-Idaho border.
Franklin County Coroner Ron Smellie said Kasey James Priestley died following the crash, despite emergency crews’ attempts to provide lifesaving aid.
According to the Idaho State Police, a 65-year-old man from Newton, Utah, was driving a Kenworth tractor-trailer pulling double trailers southbound along State Street, near 3600 South. As the commercial vehicle prepared to make a wide right turn, the driver moved into the northbound lane to create sufficient clearance for the trailers.
At the same time, Priestley was riding a Kawasaki VN900 motorcycle southbound behind the truck. When the truck swung outward, Priestley attempted to pass on the right side. The two vehicles collided as the truck turned across the roadway.
Paramedics transported Priestley to a local hospital, where he died of his injuries. Troopers confirmed he was wearing a helmet during the crash. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not wearing a seat belt and was not reported injured.
According to his obituary, Priestley was born in Logan, Utah, and grew up on his grandparents’ farm. He was remembered by loved ones for his quick wit, generous spirit, and passion for outdoor adventures, including cattle roundups and motorcycle rides.
Funeral services will be held at noon Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Preston South Stake Center, 55 E. 100 South, in Preston, with interment to follow at the Franklin Idaho Cemetery. Viewings will take place Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Webb Funeral Home and Saturday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the church.
The crash remains under investigation by the Idaho State Police.