Motorcyclist killed in collision with cow

Sep 26,2007 00:00 by Bend_Weekly_News_Sources

A Milwaukie, Oregon-area man was killed and his wife injured Monday night after their motorcycle collided with a Black Angus cow on Highway 7 about 35 miles southwest of Baker City. The cow was also killed in the crash, Oregon State Police (OSP) reported.

A man was killed and his wife injured when their motorcycle struck a cow in open range territory on Highway 7 about 35 miles southwest of Baker City, Oregon - OSP photo

About 8 p.m., September 24, an OSP Sergeant, a Baker County Sheriff's Deputy, and Baker City Fire Department rescue personnel responded to a reported crash involving a motorcycle and cow on Highway 7 near milepost 13. The crash location is about 35 miles from Baker City in southwest Baker County in an area designated as open range for cattle.

Preliminary investigation indicates a 2006 1200cc BMW motorcycle operated by Leigh Spurlock, 53, with his passenger/wife, Donna Spurlock, 48, was traveling south on Highway 7 when it struck a Black Angus cow that was in the roadway. Both riders were ejected from the motorcycle.

A passing emergency room doctor from La Grande stopped and rendered aid to both people while waiting for rescue personnel to arrive. Leigh Spurlock was pronounced deceased at the scene. Donna Spurlock was transported by ambulance to St. Elizabeth Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Both victims were wearing motorcycle helmets.

OSP troopers from the Baker City work site are continuing the investigation. ODOT and members of the Powder River Rural Fire Department also assisted during this incident.