A Montana man was killed north of Vernal Saturday after he lost control of his motorcycle.
Utah Highway Patrol troopers said David P. Hellrigel, 49, of Bozeman, Mont., was riding southbound about 15 miles north of Vernal on State Road 191 in the area known as the "The Switchbacks" when he failed to negotiate a curve.
Troopers said Hellrigel's motorcycle slammed into a guardrail, ejecting him. Hellrigel, who was wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The motorcycle continued about a quarter-mile before stopping.
Troopers said speed did not appear to be a factor in the crash. The cause of the crash remained under investigation Sunday.
jstecklein@sltrib.com
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