Motorcyclist killed identified as Nevada National Guardsman

A 21-year-old motorcyclist killed in a hit-and-run accident Saturday was a Nevada National Guardsman who had served in Afghanistan.

Spc. Ronald Edward Gaines of Las Vegas died from multiple blunt force injuries, according to the Clark County coroner’s office.

Gaines was a member of 1st Squadron, 221st Cavalry, said Maj. April Conway, a Guard spokeswoman. Conway said the squadron returned to Nevada last year after a nine-month deployment.

Witnesses told Las Vegas police that the motorcyclist was traveling west on Charleston Boulevard near Broadalbin Drive in the outside lane just before 12:30 a.m. when a dark-colored pickup truck that was driving in the inside lane suddenly changed lanes, causing the motorcyclist to lose control.

The motorcycle straddled the sidewalk, then fell over and hit a light pole.

Gaines was thrown into the traffic lane, police said.

Police said both the pickup and the motorcycle, a 2006 Suzuki GSX-R600, were traveling at a high rate of speed before the accident.

It was unclear whether the two vehicles made contact.

The driver of the pickup truck did not stop, and is being sought by police, who ask anyone with information about the incident to call the Accident Investigation Section at 702-828-8189.

Anonymous tips are also taken by Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555 and www.crimestoppersofnv.com.

Crime Stoppers tips may result in a cash reward.