Virginia State Police Trooper Rorrer is investigating a motorcycle crash which resulted in a fatality.

The crash is believed to have occurred on Friday, August 25, at approximately 11:00 p.m. on Route 116, one quarter mile north of Valley Road in Franklin County.

A 2004 Suzuki GSX1300 was traveling on Route 116 when the motorcycle ran off the right side of the roadway, striking a traffic sign and then a tree. The crash was not discovered until early Saturday morning when sunlight revealed the crash scene. After interviewing residents in the area, it is believed the crash occurred on Friday, August 25, at approximately 11:00 p.m. Residents stated they had heard a motorcycle engine noise, as it passed by, but did not go outside to investigate.

The driver of the 2004 Suzuki was identified as Raymond James Nester, 29, of Salem, Virginia. Mr. Nester was wearing a motorcycle helmet and died at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

-Submitted by Sgt. Richard Garletts