Deputies from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office responded to a vehicle crash involving a motorcycle and a motor vehicle at the junction of Tampa Road and East Lake Woodlands Parkway on May 16, 2023, at approximately 7:50 a.m.
Due to the extent of the injuries, the Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) responded to the scene to investigate the crash’s circumstances.
Preliminary findings from the investigators indicate that Conner Holmes, a 19-year-old, was traveling westbound on Tampa Road aboard a 2023 Yamaha R7 motorcycle, nearing the intersection with East Lake Woodlands Parkway.
As 69-year-old Harold Ellerby made a left turn from Tampa Road, steering his 2015 Chevrolet Silverado into the entrance of East Lake Woodlands, Holmes collided with the right rear section of the truck. The impact resulted in Holmes being forcefully ejected from his motorcycle.
Holmes was immediately transported to Mease Countryside Hospital, but unfortunately, he was pronounced deceased.
Ellerby was not injured in the crash, according to deputies.
The preliminary investigation suggests that excessive speed appears to be a factor in the crash.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather information and evidence.
The roadway was fully reopened at about 1 p.m.