Speed and alcohol factors in fatal motorcycle crash, Abbotsford police say

The scene of a fatal motorcycle crash is shown in this image handed out by the Abbotsford Police Department.

A motorcyclist died after colliding with a Jeep in Abbotsford early Thursday, and police say both speed and alcohol appear to be factors in the crash.

In a news release, the Abbotsford Police Department said officers were called to the northbound lanes of Highway 11 near Townshipline Road just after 1:30 a.m.

“Upon arrival, emergency personnel located a heavily damaged Kawasaki motorcycle and a Jeep Compass,” police said. “Despite the efforts of first responders, the motorcyclist succumbed to their injuries at the scene.”

The Jeep driver, meanwhile, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries, according to police.

Sgt. Paul Walker told CTV News it appears the motorcycle rear-ended the jeep, and both vehicles lost control.

The department did not specify whether speeding and intoxication was suspected on the part of the Jeep driver or the motorcyclist.

“Investigators are looking at the actions of both drivers in this case and it will take some time to understand what exactly happened,” Walker said.

Highway 11 northbound between Old Clayburn and Harris roads was shut down for the investigation and the area reopened around 9 a.m.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has dash camera video is asked to call the APD at 604-859-5225.

Walker added that police have removed 700 impaired drivers from roads in the city so far this year. In 2024, the figure was about 800 in 12 months.

“That number is 700 too many,” he said. “There should be zero excuse for travelling impaired.”

Police urged people to plan a safe way home and report impaired drivers.