Tyler Motorcyclist Injured in Wreck

TYLER — A motorcyclist appears to have been critically injured in a two vehicle accident in Tyler. He is identified as Christopher Ray Benkowski, 27, of 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. Benkowski was transported to East Texas Medical Center Hospital by ambulance. Police say his injuries appear to be life-threatening. The driver of the SUV was taken to the hospital via private vehicle.

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 fled north on New Copeland Road. The officer did not pursue the motorcycle. A short time later the accident occurred