Connor Wildey Obituary, 23yrs, Coroner identifies motorcyclist killed in Santa Cruz County crash
The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) have officially identified the motorcyclist killed in a tragic collision earlier this month. The victim has been identified as 23-year-old Connor Wildey of Scotts Valley.
The fatal incident occurred on the morning of September 23, reported at approximately 7:01 a.m. near the intersection of Corralitos Road and Merk Road. According to investigators, the collision involved a 2000 GMC pickup truck and a 2004 Yamaha motorcycle.
Preliminary reports from the CHP indicate that a 61-year-old Watsonville man was driving the pickup northbound on Corralitos Road. As the driver attempted to make a left-hand turn onto Merk Road, the pickup collided with Wildey, who was traveling southbound on his motorcycle. While the exact speeds of both vehicles at the time of impact remain unknown, the collision resulted in critical injuries for Wildey. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities noted that safety measures were in place for both parties involved; Wildey was wearing a helmet, and the driver of the pickup was wearing a seat belt. Furthermore, investigators stated that drugs and alcohol do not appear to have been factors in the crash. The exact cause of the collision remains under investigation.
Following the accident, the roadway was temporarily closed to allow CHP officers to conduct a thorough scene investigation.
Capt. Boles, commander of the CHP Santa Cruz Area Office, expressed condolences to those mourning the loss. “The CHP extends our deepest sympathies to the motorcyclist’s family and friends for this unfortunate crash,” Boles said. He also issued a reminder to the community: “Creating a safer highway environment is the shared responsibility of drivers and motorcyclists alike. This is achieved by staying alert and using courtesy while on the road.”
