Tyler Motorcyclist Injured in Wreck

TYLER — A motorcyclist has been critically injured in a two vehicle accident in Tyler. It happened Wednesday night at New Copeland Road and Barbara Street. Investigators say an SUV had pulled away from a stop sign on Barbara and was hit by the motorcycle. The driver of the motorcycle, 27-year-old Christopher Ray Benkowsk of Tyler, was taken by ambulance to East Texas Medical Center. He remains there in critical condition. Police say his injuries appear to be life-threatening. The driver of the SUV was taken to the hospital via private vehicle.

Police say prior to the accident, a patrol officer saw the motorcycle run a stop sign at Amherst and Donnybrook. When the officer tried to stop the motorcycle it allegedly fled north on New Copeland Road. The officer did not pursue the motorcycle. A short time later the accident occurred.