Clark County, NV (February 1, 2026) -A deadly collision involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck is under investigation following a crash on southbound State Route 160 near mile marker 15 in Clark County. According to Nevada Highway Patrol, troopers responded to the scene at approximately 3:31 p.m. on January 31, 2026. One adult male motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger on the motorcycle was airlifted to a nearby hospital by Mercy Air with injuries sustained in the collision. The driver and passenger in the pickup truck were evaluated but did not require transport. Southbound SR-160 was closed for an extended period while authorities conducted their investigation. Northbound lanes remained open, and motorists were advised to seek alternate routes.
Key Details
- Location: Clark County, NV
- Where: Southbound SR-160 near mile marker 15
- Type: Fatal Motorcycle and Pickup Truck Collision
- Reported: January 31, 2026, 3:31 p.m.
- Injuries: 1 fatality, 1 injured
- Responding Agency: Nevada Highway Patrol
What We Know So Far
- The crash occurred on southbound SR-160 near mile marker 15 in Clark County.
- A motorcycle and a pickup truck were involved in the collision.
- The motorcycle rider was pronounced dead at the scene.
- A motorcycle passenger was airlifted to the hospital with injuries.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The cause or sequence of events leading to the crash
- The identity and current condition of the injured motorcycle passenger
- Whether impairment or speed were factors
- Any potential charges or citations related to the crash
Local Context
State Route 160 serves as a key connector between Las Vegas and Pahrump, with portions of the highway passing through rural areas that see both commuter and recreational travel. The crash occurred near mile marker 15, a stretch of road that can carry fast-moving traffic, particularly on weekends. Nevada Highway Patrol confirmed that a motorcycle and pickup truck collided in the southbound lanes, resulting in a fatality and serious injury. Southbound traffic was shut down for several hours during the on-scene investigation, while northbound lanes remained open. The collision highlights the ongoing risks faced by motorcyclists on open highway routes in Southern Nevada.
What to Do Next
- If you’re traveling through the area, check traffic alerts and use alternate routes as advised.
- Drivers should remain vigilant when sharing roads with motorcycles, especially on high-speed rural highways.
- Witnesses to the crash should contact authorities if they have additional information that could aid the investigation.
- Motorcyclists are urged to wear proper safety gear and travel with caution through rural zones where visibility may vary.
FAQ
Q: Why are motorcycle crashes often more severe than other types?
A: Motorcyclists lack the protection of enclosed vehicles, so even minor collisions can result in serious injuries or fatalities. High speeds and visibility issues also increase the risk.
Q: What should drivers do when approaching motorcycles on the highway?
A: Allow extra following distance, check blind spots, and never assume a motorcycle’s speed or position. Always signal and pass safely.
Q: Can a crash investigation delay highway reopening?
A: Yes. Fatal crash investigations often require extensive documentation and scene analysis, which can keep lanes closed for several hours while authorities gather evidence.