(Henrico County, Va.) On Wednesday, October 27, 2021, around 8:06 pm, there were reports to Emergency Communications of a vehicle violation. Citizens reported motorcycles were driving recklessly and doing wheelies along Parham Road. At Derbyshire Road, patrol officers observed the suspected riders; but did not observe any violations.
The motorcycles turned east [right] onto Patterson Avenue to go towards Richmond City. The officer continued to monitor the motorcycles from afar, and while traveling along Patterson Avenue, the motorcycles accelerated rapidly.
At 8:14 pm, another citizen called 9-1-1, advising there was a crash involving a motorcycle. The preliminary investigation indicates an SUV was traveling west on Patterson Avenue and making a left turn onto Ridge Top Road. The motorcycle rider was traveling east when the collision occurred, striking the vehicle's front end, and losing control. The rider was ejected from the motorcycle, and the motorcycle came to a stop after crashing into a nearby fence.
Witnesses remained on scene and are working closely with law enforcement.
The operator of the motorcycle, 21-year-old Paul Thomas King, of Powhatan, was transported to a nearby hospital, and later died.
"Everyone should be responsible for their actions, whether on foot, bicycle, or motor vehicle. Follow the rules of the road; slow down," says Lieutenant Matt Pecka. If you witness reckless driving, you may alert your local law enforcement agency.