Authorities have identified the two men who lost their lives in a tragic motorcycle crash on Sioux Falls’ Russell Street last week.
According to the Sioux Falls Police Department, the victims were 56-year-old Erik Boyles and 55-year-old Travis Gallop, both residents of Sioux Falls. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 9:19 p.m. on June 5 near the intersection of Russell Street and Kiwanis Avenue.
Emergency responders, including police officers and medical personnel, were dispatched to the scene following reports of a serious motorcycle accident. Preliminary findings indicate that both men were riding Harley-Davidson motorcycles westbound on Russell Street when the crash occurred.
Investigators believe one motorcycle may have struck the other as the riders attempted to navigate a curve in the roadway. The impact reportedly caused both motorcycles to leave the roadway, sending the riders into the center median and a nearby guardrail. Both men sustained fatal injuries in the crash.
Police said Boyles and Gallop had been riding together before the incident. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, with speed being considered as a possible contributing factor. Toxicology testing has also been ordered to determine whether alcohol or drugs played any role.
Officials confirmed that next of kin have been notified, and the investigation remains active as officers work to gather additional details about the deadly crash.
The loss of the two longtime Sioux Falls residents has left family members and friends mourning. In the aftermath of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist Travis Gallop’s family with funeral expenses and other unexpected costs. Community members have begun offering financial support and messages of condolence as loved ones remember the men whose lives were cut short.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Sioux Falls Police Department.
