Head-on crash kills unidentified Chico motorcyclist

An unidentifed Chico man lost his life Tuesday, May 30 following a head-on crash on Highway 32.

According to a statement from the California Highway Patrol, about 3:35 p.m. Tuesday, May 30, a 33-year-old motorcyclist from Chico, California was driving a 2022 Honda Shadow motorcycle westbound on Highway 32 approximately 4 miles east of Highway 36.

The motorcyclist was driving at an undetermined speed, entered a right hand curve, lost control and began sliding on his right side.  The motorcyclist and the Honda slid across the westbound lane, crossed the double yellow lines and entered the eastbound lane.  At the same time, Dante Valerga, 24, of Westwood, was driving a 2020 Jeep Renegade eastbound at the same location.  Valerga saw the motorcyclist and the Honda slide into the eastbound lane.

Valerga attempted evasive actions but crashed head-on with the motorcycle and rider.  The motorcyclist sustained fatal injuries on impact.  Valerga received minor injuries.

Alchohol and/or drugs are currently not considered a factor in this crash.  This crash is still under investigation. The CHP statement did not identify the motorcyclist.