Motorcyclist dies on Thruway in Catskill

A 24-year-old whose name is being withheld died around noon yesterday on the New York Thruway in the town of Catskill after his motorcycle slammed into a guardrail, State Police report. Here's the full press release:

On October 31, 2010 the New York State Police, Troop T, are investigating a fatal motorcycle accident that occurred at 12:40PM on the New York State Thruway in the Town of Catskill, Greene County, NY. A 24 year old Male from New York City was south bound on the Thruway operating a 2009 motorcycle when he lost control and went off the right shoulder striking a guiderail. The operator was pronounced at the scene and was transported to St. Peters Hospital by the Greene County Medical Examiner's Office. The right driving lane was closed for 2 hours while the accident was investigated. The accident is still under investigation and the identity of the operator is pending notifications.

The Daily Freeman is reporting that the accident may have been caused by high winds:

Police said witnesses to the accident said the 2009 Yamaha was hit by a strong gust of wind, causing the operator to loss control and hit a guard rail on the right side of the roadway.