OAK GROVE, Ky. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Kentucky State Police are investigating a two-vehicle, injury-collision that occurred on I-24 at approximately the 89 mile marker on Saturday, July 23 at 3:28 p.m.
Michael Painter, 22, of Streetsboro, OH was driving a 2009 Yamaha R6 motorcycle eastbound on I-24. Alejandro Lopez, 36, of Goodyear, AZ was operating a Freightliner semi-truck trailer eastbound on I-24. Painter was attempting to pass in between vehicles on the center line. While attempting to pass Lopez, Painter made contact with the semi and he lost control of his motorcycle.
Painter was ejected from the motorcycle and both he and the motorcycle came to rest off the right side of the roadway. Lopez had no damage to the semi-truck trailer and he came to rest off the right side of the roadway.
Painter was transported via helicopter to Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville for treatment. He was wearing his helmet.
Trooper Brian Graves is investigating the collision. The Oak Grove Fire Department, Christian County EMS, Christian County Sheriff’s Department and Christian County Rescue assisted at the scene.