Motorcycle crash kills Athena man in Walla Walla County

A 21-year-old Athena, Ore., man died Thursday after his motorcycle struck a power pole on Last Chance Road near W. Whitman Drive, according to the Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office.

Benjamin M. Hubbard was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities were dispatched at 6:03 p.m. April 16, and lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful.

Speed was cited as an obvious factor. Sheriff's officials noted the power pole was sheared off at the ground, and witnesses reported the motorcycle traveling at a high rate of speed prior to the crash. Other contributing factors remain under investigation.

The Washington State Patrol is assisting with the collision investigation. Hubbard's next of kin was notified with assistance from the Umatilla County Sheriff's Office.

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