The fatal collision took place at approximately 10:15 a.m. on April 18, 2026, on Highway 78 just east of San Felipe Road.
Julian, CA – The man who was killed in a motorcycle crash involving a tractor-trailer in Julian has been identified, according to authorities.
The County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the deceased as Bernard Nietvelt, a 67-year-old man from Redlands.
The fatal collision took place at approximately 10:15 a.m. on April 18, 2026, on Highway 78 just east of San Felipe Road.
Preliminary investigation findings indicate that Nietvelt was operating a motorcycle when he was ejected from the bike and was subsequently struck by a tractor-trailer. Emergency services were contacted, and paramedics responded to the scene.
Nietvelt sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 10:46 a.m. No other injuries or arrests were reported in connection with the incident.
The cause of death was determined to be blunt force injuries, and no contributing conditions were noted. The manner of death was ruled an accident.
Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures before the victim was pronounced deceased.
The crash impacted the roadway in the area as authorities responded and conducted their investigation.
The incident remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol – El Cajon.