A motorcyclist critically injured today when his 2006 Harley Davidson was struck by another vehicle at Pine Island Road and Chiquita Boulevard has succumbed to injuries suffered in the crash.
Donald Richard Erwin, 59, of 1919 S.W. 22nd Court, died at Lee Memorial Hospital. His death is the city’s seventh traffic fatality this year.
Erwin was traveling eastbound on Pine Island Road, approaching the intersection of Chiquita Boulevard, at approximately 1:16 p.m. A 2001 Honda Civic, driven by Virginia Murphy, 62, of 2711 Beach Parkway West, was traveling westbound in the middle lane when, according to witnesses, the driver made an abrupt left turn into the middle of the intersection. Murphy reportedly cut off drivers in the turn lane to head southbound on Chiquita and pulled into Erwin’s path, officials said. Erwin locked his rear brakes in an attempt to avoid the Honda but his motorcycle skidded in front of the car and was struck.
Erwin was ejected from the motorcycle, and he came to rest in the eastbound lanes of Pine Island Road. His motorcycle came to rest on the right side facing a southeast direction, also in the eastbound lanes of Pine Island Road. Murphy’s vehicle ended up in the eastbound lanes of Pine Island Road as well.
Erwin was transported as a trauma alert via Medstar to Lee Memorial Hospital where he died from the injuries. Officials described Murphy’s injuries as “minor.”
Erwin, who officials say was not wearing a helmet, is the third motorcycle rider killed this year in Cape Coral.
A criminal investigation into the accident is being conducted by Cape Coral Police, and alcohol is being investigated. Next of kin has been notified. More information will be released when available.

Source: Cape Coral Police Department