Motorcyclist from Kalispell killed in wreck near Belgrade

A 28-year-old Kalispell man on a motorcycle died after a pickup truck pulled out in front of him near Belgrade on Sunday evening, authorities say.

The man was riding a Yamaha motorcycle eastbound along Frontage Road in Gallatin County about 10:13 p.m., Aug. 6 when the truck pulled out in front of him from Thorpe Road while taking a right turn, according to a report issued by Montana Highway Patrol. The motorcyclist slammed into the rear of the pickup.

The 28-year-old was taken to Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead, authorities said. The driver of the pickup truck fled.

Investigators suspect alcohol played a role in the fatal wreck. Road conditions were dry at the time, authorities said.

The man wore a helmet, officials said.

The wreck remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim.

News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or dperkins@dailyinterlake.com.