Austin Bates identified as the victim in a deadly single-vehicle crash in Blount County
BLOUNT COUNTY, Ala. — Authorities have confirmed that a 35-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a single-vehicle crash Tuesday evening in Blount County.
Alabama State Troopers on Wednesday identified the victim as Austin L. Bates, a resident of Oneonta.
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 6:42 p.m. Tuesday on Blount County Road 20 near Rogers Road, about five miles east of Oneonta.
According to Trooper Sgt. Reginal King, preliminary reports indicate that Bates was operating a 1947 Indian Chief motorcycle when he veered off the roadway and struck a tree.
Despite immediate emergency response efforts, Bates was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not released further details about what may have led to the crash.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Highway Patrol Division continues to investigate the incident.
