Des Moines, IA (May 14, 2026) – A motorcyclist died following a collision involving a car Wednesday afternoon in Des Moines’ Waveland Park neighborhood, according to police.
Emergency crews with the Des Moines Police Department and fire department responded around 1:30 p.m. to reports of a crash involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle on University Avenue. Authorities said the motorcycle caught fire after the collision, and a nearby business owner used a fire extinguisher to help put out the flames before responders arrived.
Life-saving measures were performed at the scene before the motorcyclist, a 41-year-old man, was transported to UnityPoint Methodist Medical Center. Officials later confirmed he died from his injuries. Police said the rider was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Preliminary findings indicate the crash occurred when a 16-year-old driver operating a 2013 Dodge Avenger attempted to turn into a parking lot from westbound University Avenue. During the turn, the motorcycle, identified as a 2011 Harley-Davidson, collided with the vehicle.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Motorcycle Crashes at Turning Intersections
Motorcycle collisions frequently occur when passenger vehicles make turns across traffic and fail to properly judge the speed or distance of an approaching rider. Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than larger vehicles, riders often face an increased risk of severe injuries in intersection crashes.
Authorities encourage drivers to carefully check for motorcycles before turning or changing lanes and remind riders to remain alert in high-traffic areas. Even when protective gear such as helmets is used, motorcycle crashes can result in life-threatening injuries due to the lack of external protection.
