Willow motorcyclist dies in crash

BIG LAKE — A 46-year-old motorcyclist died in a wreck Wednesday night, Alaska State Troopers reported this morning.

Troopers say the accident was reported at 6:06 p.m. near the intersection of South Big Lake Road and Lighthouse Drive.

Leroy H. Frank, 51, of Willow, was northbound riding a 2005 Yamaha V-Max motorcycle when he crossed the centerline in front of a 1996 Chevy Metro, according to a trooper press release.

The other driver, Johnny J. Edwards, 46, of Big Lake, tried to avoid the motorcycle but couldn't, troopers report, though he was nearly stopped by the time the bike hit him.

Frank was pronounced dead at the scene. He was wearing a helmet and troopers don't suspect alcohol played a role in the crash.