Springs double fatal, as paged

[jimmnn]

Colorado State Patrol is now on the scene of fatal motorcycle accident on the south side of Colorado Springs. Two people are confirmed dead in the crash. Officials have shut down both NB lanes and one SB lane on S. Academy between I-25 and Highway 85.

The victims have been identified as a male and female. They were riding the motorcycle when it crashed.

Stay with KKTV 11 News and KKTV.com for the latest on this traffic fatality investigation.

 

[jimmnn]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 12-07-2008 Time: 11:20 P.M.

On December 7, 2008, at 3:11 P.M., El Paso County Colorado, the Colorado State Patrol responded to a fatal crash involving a Pontiac Grand Prix and a Harley Davidson motorcycle. According to several witnesses, the Grand Prix and an unidentified run vehicle were racing and traveling at a high rate of speed, northbound on South Academy Blvd. The Pontiac changed from the center lane to the right lane and collided with a motorcycle that was also traveling northbound.

On the motorcycle, was the driver and one passenger. The driver of the motorcycle was identified as 47 year-old Charles Coggins of Colorado Springs. Mr. Coggins was not wearing a helmet and died at the scene from injuries he sustained in the crash. The female passenger was also not wearing a helmet and died at the scene from injuries she sustained in the crash. The identity of the female is being held pending the notification of next of kin.

The driver of the Pontiac was identified as 18 year-old Brandon Howard of Ft. Carson. Mr. Howard was charged with two counts of vehicular homicide as well as engaging in a speed contest. Mr. Howard was booked into El Paso County Jail and held on bond.