Motorcyclist dies in crash

Jon Johnson File Photo/Gila Herald: The Sheriff's Office will utilize Governor’s Office of Highway Safety funds for DUI abatement.

Jon Johnson File Photo: The Graham County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred early Thursday evening.

By Jon Johnson

jonjohnsonnews@gmail.com

GRAHAM COUNTY – A motorcyclist was in a fatal crash south of Safford on Thursday evening. 

Brendan James Harrison, 26, formerly of Show Low, was found at about 7:50 p.m. after he apparently crashed while riding on W. Boulder Ln., which is a dirt road about eight miles southwest of Safford that connects to State Route 366 (Swift Trail). 

A passerby noticed the crashed motorcyclist and called 911. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) was performed by witnesses, law enforcement, and paramedics, according to a Sheriff’s Office press release. 

Harrison was transported to Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased. It was noted that Harrison suffered severe head trauma and was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. 

The Graham County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation into the fatal crash with the assistance of the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Harrison’s body will be sent to Tucson for an autopsy by the Pima County Office of Medical Examiner as per the county’s IGA with Pima County. 

Harrison leaves behind a wife and young son. A GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up in his name. Click here to visit the fundraiser page.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to assist the family after the tragic passing of Brendan Harrison. Click here to visit the fundraiser’s page.