Las Vegas, NV (July 20, 2026) – A 23-year-old motorcyclist died in a collision with an SUV early on Sunday, July 19. The accident happened around 1:45 a.m. at Spencer Street and Serene Avenue.
The motorcycle was traveling north on Spencer Street as a Volkswagen Tiguan approached from eastbound Serene Avenue. Police said the SUV made a left turn against a red turn arrow, placing both vehicles in the intersection at the same time.
The vehicles made contact, leaving each with major damage. Emergency units pronounced the rider dead at the scene. His name was not included in the initial report.
Police identified the Tiguan driver as 57-year-old Danny Simpkins. He was arrested on suspicion of DUI-related offenses. Eastbound Serene Avenue was temporarily closed at Spencer Street while evidence was collected. The cause of the collision remains under investigation.
We offer sincere condolences to the motorcyclist’s family and friends.
What Makes Red-Arrow Turns Dangerous for Riders
A red turn arrow requires drivers to remain stopped until the signal permits movement. Making that change can place a vehicle directly across the path of approaching traffic.
Motorcycles have a smaller profile than passenger vehicles, which may make their speed and distance harder to judge. Riders also have little protection when contact occurs, increasing the risk of severe head, chest, and internal trauma.
Signal timing, vehicle paths, sight distance, and contact points can help explain how an intersection accident happened. Lighting, traffic volume, and nearby road markings may also affect what each driver could see. Damage patterns and onboard vehicle data can provide additional information about speed and movement. These factors are especially relevant during overnight hours, when visibility may be reduced, and traffic signals can be easier to overlook.
