Fresno, CA : Oakhurst residents injured in motorcycle wreck on Highway 41 near El Cid’s Mexican Restaurant on Wednesday afternoon, July 20, 2016

Two people suffered significant injuries when they collided with an SUV that pulled out onto Highway 41 near El Cid’s Mexican Restaurant to the north side of Oakhurst Wednesday afternoon.

Lawrence and Denise Kellerhals, both 64 of Oakhurst, were riding a blue Harley Davidson Softail northbound on Highway 41 shortly before 1:20 p.m.

At that time, Gary Shipp, visiting his family from Texas, pulled onto the highway from River Falls Road in a gray Toyota 4-Runner SUV.

According to a CHP incident report, Shipp failed to yield the right of way to Lawrence, who was driving the motorcycle. Lawrence subsequently crashed into the front end of the Toyota, throwing both he and Denise across the highway.

Denise suffered major injuries while Lawrence’s injuries were described as moderate. Both were transported by Sierra Ambulance to Community Regional Medical Center of Fresno, according to the report.

Shipp, in his 50s, was uninjured in the wreck. He was unable to assist the Kellerhals due to disabilities related to previous broken neck injuries, but others pulled over to help including Tonya Karg, a Cal Fire engineer for Fresno County who helped lift the injured motorcyclists onto the ambulance by gurney.

“Here’s hoping they’re going to be okay,” Karg said.

California Highway Patrol Sgt. Ethan Jackson wished to remind all drivers to remain aware of bikers, motorcyclists, and other vehicles on the roadway.

“We share the roadway with bikers and motorcyclists, which can often be harder to see,” Jackson said. “It’s important for all drivers to look for them, as well as cars, pedestrians, and other traffic while remaining cautious on the roads.”

Northbound highway drivers were diverted through the parking lot of Supreme Lending - Andrew Pence, while southbound drivers were moved into the northbound lane.

No alcohol or drugs were suspected in the crash, officers said.

Source :
Oakhurst residents injured in motorcycle wreck on Highway 41