Coroner IDs Motorcyclist Killed In Crash Near Temecula

TEMECULA, CA — A motorcyclist who died Saturday afternoon after crashing on state Route 79 east of Temecula has been identified by the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner's Bureau.

Michael Cooper, 74, of Balboa, Calif., was pronounced dead at the scene on northbound SR-79, just west of Dugan Drive.

The crash was first reported at 2:40 p.m. According to a California Highway Patrol report, Cooper failed to negotiate a turn and lost control of the 1971 BSA motorcycle and was ejected. Passing motorists stopped to help and provided life-saving measures, but Cooper succumbed to his injuries.

The road was briefly shut down in both directions following the solo crash, but had reopened by 3:30 p.m.