About 1:30 p.m. this afternoon, Italy Fire and Rescue along with Italy Police units responded to a peculiar motorcycle crash on Hwy 77 outside of Italy, on the way to Forreston.

Italy emergency personnel were also joined by DPS in closing off the roadway and securing the scene.

A motorcycle, pulling a makeshift trailer, was turned over in the middle of the highway after skidding for a long distance. The rider, Ken Reeves who is a retired State trooper, was in serious trouble. A passerby stopped and left her kids in the car while she tended to the victim and calling 911.

A witness claimed a small beige car flew past her, like a blur, fleeing the scene. She was forced to stop after catching a glimpse of the trailer rolling into the ditch.

However, no connection between the beige car and the wreck has been determined.

Another potential cause could be the tarp that covered the trailer being pulled by the motorcycle. The tarp laid, flapping in the wind, at one end of the skid marks away from where the motorcycle came to a stop at the opposite end of the marks.

AirEvac responded to the scene and Italy Fire Chief Donald Chambers, who was in contact with the pilot, directed their landing across HWY 77.

AirEvac technicians treated Mr. Reeves for about 45 minutes before transporting the injured and unconscious rider to the hospital.

DPS investigated the accident and the wreckage was removed from HWY 77.

We all wish Mr. Reeves well and are praying for him.