Man dies after motorcycle hits moose

SUTTON — A motorcycle with two people onboard hit a moose Tuesday evening, killing the driver and seriously injuring the passenger.

According to a press statement from Alaska State Troopers, the accident was reported at 9:44 p.m. near Mile 92.5 Glenn Highway.

Troopers say Ryan E. Beachy, 29, of Sutton, was driving the motorcycle when the moose stepped out into the road. Tracy L. Bushnell, 25, of Indian, was his passenger.

“The front of the motorcycle struck the moose, which caused both occupants to be ejected and thrown. Beachy was not wearing a helmet during the time of the collision. Bushnell was wearing a helmet during the collision, which was located on scene,” troopers report.

Beachy was declared dead on scene after efforts to revive him failed. Busnell was unconscious the whole time troopers were there but survived and was flown to Anchorage.

“She is listed in stable but critical condition,” troopers report.

Troopers say they don’t suspect alcohol was a factor in the crash. The moose died on impact and was donated to a local charity.

The trooper press release ends with this:

“Troopers would like to thank the multiple citizens who stopped and performed CPR and first aid until EMS could arrive.”