Harley rider killed in Fresno County crash was a U.S. veteran

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – The motorcyclist who was killed in a crash on Sample Road in Fresno County was also identified as a U.S. veteran, the California Highway Patrol said.

On Thursday, officers with CHP said 63-year-old Charles Ramirez, the man who died after colliding with a metal road sign while traveling on Sample Road, was a U.S. Navy veteran.

Last Sunday, around 8:40 a.m., CHP officers say they responded to a call about an injury collision on Sample Road, west of Pittman Hill Road.

Investigators say Ramirez was riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle westbound on Sample Road, west of Pittman Hill Road when he went off the roadway onto the dirt right shoulder of Sample Road.

According to CHP, this caused Ramirez to collide with a metal road sign, ejecting him onto the dirt shoulder. Ramirez died on the scene, where his family and friends were present.

“As with all fatalities we investigate, our thoughts are with his loved ones, and friends, as they navigate unbearable grief,” said CHP in a social media post. “Though small comfort, he passed doing what he loved, surrounded by those he loved.”

Ramirez was honored by the California Highway Patrol and the Fresno County Coroner’s Office for his service.

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