Southbound rider struck by northbound motorcycle near 1050th Street
April 24, 2026 | Oak Grove, WI
A tragic motorcycle accident claimed the life of 26-year-old Evan Jorgenson on State Road 35 near 1050th Street.
Evan Jorgenson, 26, died after a motorcycle crash in which he was struck by a northbound motorcyclist on State Road 35 near 1050th Street in Oak Grove, Pierce County.
What Happened in the Crash?
Evan Jorgenson was riding southbound around 6:13 p.m. on April 24 when a northbound motorcyclist struck his motorcycle. He was rushed to Regions Hospital in Saint Paul, Minnesota, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day. The Pierce County Sheriff's Office is leading the ongoing investigation into the incident.
- Victim: Evan Jorgenson, 26
- Location: State Road 35 near 1050th Street, Oak Grove, WI
- Time: Approximately 6:13 p.m. on April 24
- Vehicles Involved: Two motorcycles—one southbound, one northbound
- Outcome: Fatal injuries leading to death the next day
- Hospital: Regions Hospital, Saint Paul, MN
Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Like This Occur?
Motorcycle crashes often stem from vulnerabilities unique to riders. Common factors include blind spots, driver inexperience, and distractions. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), these incidents highlight the need for thorough investigations to uncover causes.
Motorcycle Fatality Statistics
Motorcyclist deaths have surged in recent years, underscoring the dangers of these vehicles. Data from the IIHS provides critical context:
Year |
Motorcyclist Deaths |
Percentage of Total Crash Deaths |
Change from Previous Period |
|---|
1997 |
About 2,100 |
5% |
Baseline |
2019 |
About 5,000 |
14% |
Not available |
2023 |
6,335 |
15% |
+26% since 2019 |
This table illustrates the alarming rise, with 2023 marking the highest number of fatalities recorded.
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, conducting an independent investigation is crucial to safeguard victims' families. Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst with Newsline, emphasized the importance of professional involvement.
“Motorcyclists are arguably the most vulnerable motorists on the road, and several factors can play a role in fatal crashes,” said Bond. “Blind spots, inexperienced drivers, and distracted motorists often cause these types of collisions. An attorney has the resources to hire witnesses, conduct drivers’ background checks, locate witnesses to the crash, and review applicable insurance coverage, while carefully guiding the grieving family of the victim through the legal process and vigorously protecting their best interests.”
Key takeaways:
- Independent investigations reveal hidden factors like road conditions or mechanical issues.
- Legal support ensures access to resources for background checks and witness statements.
- Families benefit from guidance amid overwhelming grief.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
The family of Evan Jorgenson may pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress. Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, highlighted the emotional toll.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Formica. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and protecting their rights is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help protect their legal rights and best interests.”
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).