Local native Orion Onigkeit, age 18, is the biker involved in a fatal collision in Cheyenne last month. Just 18 days after a similar tragedy claimed the life of a 20-year-old biker, the incident happened on September 15 at about 11:22 p.m. On October 3, the Wyoming Highway Patrol released a report stating Onigkeit was heading east on East Lincolnway when control was lost negotiating a left-hand curve near Nationway, resulting in a collision with a building. The fire started and Cheyenne Fire Rescue needed to act right away.
Authorities verified Onigkeit was wearing a helmet at the time, even though the protective gear couldn’t save a fatal consequence. At the site the biker was declared dead.
Research of the events points to possible major contribution of great speed to the crash. Nearby police saw Onigkeit and another rider, 23-year-old David Rutherford, riding their motorcycles at great speed shortly before the crash.
Rutherford, who stayed at the scene and did not sustain injuries, was cited for negligent motorcycling operation without the necessary endorsement.
The death of such a young life emphasises the great need of following speed rules and using caution, especially on paths prone to sharp bends and abrupt changes. Thoughts linger with family members and loved ones struggling with the unexpected and tragic death of two people within such a small period while the society considers these events.
