Police identify motorcyclist killed in crash last week

An Orleans County motorcyclist died last week in a two-vehicle crash in Niagara County, according to New York State Police.

Troopers said that a northbound vehicle on South Transit Road in Pendleton entered the median and started to turn left onto Tonawanda Creek Road around 1:45 p.m. Thursday, and failed to yield the right of way to a motorcycle.

The motorcyclist - Vincent J. Hawkins, 51, of Medina - was thrown from his motorcycle at the scene, troopers said. He was taken to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo, where he died from his injuries.

Further details of the crash were not released.

Who was Vincent Hawkins?

According to his obituary, Hawkins loved riding his motorcycle, fishing, playing cards, snake hunting and shooting his guns. He was a member of the Junior Wilson Sportsmen's Club

"Most importantly, he will be remembered for enjoying time with his family, joking around with his great sense of humor and having the kindest heart," the obituary read.

Hawkins was survived by his wife Jeanne, son Mateo and numerous other relatives. A Celebration of Life is set for 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the Junior Wilson Sportsmen’s Club in Medina.