Motorcyclist killed in Durham accident

DURHAM, N.C. — Police are investigating a fatal accident involving a motorcycle on U.S.-70 West near the Interstate 85 split Saturday afternoon.

The accident occurred around 4 p.m. when a motorcycle driven by Jack Rigsbee, 42, of Durham, went out of control while merging onto U.S. 70 East from Interstate 85 North, officials said. The motorcycle crossed the eastbound lanes of U.S. 70 and hit a deep gulley in the median, causing Rigsbee to be thrown from the motorcycle onto the westbound lanes of U.S. 70.

Investigators believe Rigsbee may have been struck by a vehicle on U.S. 70 West, but the driver did not stop. Rigsbee, who was wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators are trying to locate the vehicle that may have hit Rigsbee. It is possibly a dark-colored sport-utility vehicle. Investigators said it is possible the driver was unaware of the accident.

Anyone with information about the accident is asked to call Investigator L.W. Cox of the Traffic Services Unit at 560-4314, ext. 413.