From the California Highway Patrol:

On February 20, 2015, at approximately 9:55 p.m., Andrew Joseph James Carrigan, age 24, of San Francisco was driving a 2011 Hyundai Sonata westbound on SR-299, east of Lord Ellis at a speed greater than fifty miles per hour.  Jerry Dean Hathcock, age 54 of Eureka was riding his 2003 KTM motorcycle eastbound on SR-299, east of Lord Ellis at an unknown speed. 

Carrigan had been driving behind two vehicles when he turned his vehicle into the opposing lane, crossing over double yellow lines and in a corner to pass the vehicles that were traveling in close proximity of each other.  Carrigan had passed the first vehicle and was overtaking the second vehicle when Hathcock rode his motorcycle eastbound around the curve and observed the Hyundai in his lane.  Hathcock turned his motorcycle to the right to avoid a collision but he was unsuccessful and the front of the Hyundai collided into the motorcycle.  Carrigan applied the brakes after the collision and brought his vehicle to a stop partially on the south shoulder and partially in the eastbound lane facing in an westerly direction. 

The impact of the collision, caused Hathcock to be ejected and Hathcock and the motorcycle came to rest on the south embankment.  Hathcock succumbed to his injuries at the scene.  Carrigan was transported by ambulance to Mad River Community Hospital for minor injuries.  Officer Kibler, #20361, is investigating the collision, Acting Sergeant Michael Campbell, #16321, was the on-scene manager.  DUI is not a factor and SR-299 was not closed.

The California Highway Patrol - Humboldt Area responded to the scene and is conducting the investigation.  Personnel from the Blue Lake Volunteer Fire Department, Humboldt County Coroner, and Arcata Mad River Ambulance also responded to the scene.