A fatal collision involving a motorcycle and an SUV on South Harbor City Boulevard (US-1) claimed the life of a Palm Bay man Wednesday morning, prompting an ongoing Traffic Homicide investigation by the Melbourne Police Department (MPD).

Confirmed Facts of the Crash (Per MPD & WFTV Report):

  1. Victim: Joshua Risby Garcia, 40, of Palm Bay.
  2. Location: 700 block of South Harbor City Boulevard (US-1), Melbourne, FL.
  3. Time: Shortly before 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
  4. Vehicles Involved:
    • Primary: Motorcycle, operated by Garcia, traveling northbound on US-1.
    • Secondary: Passenger SUV, exiting a parking lot onto US-1.
  5. Sequence of Events (Per Preliminary MPD Investigation):
    • The SUV exited a parking lot and “pulled in front of” Garcia’s northbound motorcycle.
    • Garcia’s motorcycle struck the driver’s side of the SUV.
    • The impact trapped Garcia underneath the SUV.
    • A second motorcycle, following Garcia, attempted to evade the crash but struck the front of the SUV.
  6. Outcome:
    • Garcia was transported to a local hospital and pronounced deceased.
    • The SUV driver sustained minor injuries.
    • The second motorcyclist’s status was not detailed in the initial official report.
  7. Police Response: MPD closed US-1 between Cherry Avenue and NASA Boulevard for several hours to conduct their investigation. The Traffic Homicide Unit is leading the probe. The wreck remains under investigation; no determination of fault or cause has been released.

Context and Investigation Focus:

While social media discussions emerged rapidly after the crash – including claims of excessive motorcycle speed (estimates ranging 75-100 mph), as well as debate over driver right-of-way – MPD has not released any official information confirming speed estimates, rider behavior or fault. These social media claims remain allegations that have not yet been substantiated by the ongoing police investigation.

More Stories

Stephen Fenton Motorcycle Accident Shocks Missouri Route 94
Incident

Stephen Fenton Motorcycle Accident Shocks Missouri Route 94

Motorcycle Accident Davenport Iowa Injures Five
Incident

Probe: Motorcycle Accident Davenport Iowa Injures Five

The official investigation will focus on critical, evidence-based factors:

  • The SUV’s Actions: Why did the driver pull out? Were sightlines clear? Was there adequate time/distance to complete the maneuver safely?
  • Motorcycle Dynamics: Physical evidence (skid marks, vehicle damage, potential onboard data) will be analyzed to determine actual speed and maneuvers.
  • The Second Motorcycle: Its proximity, speed, and actions contributing to the secondary collision.
  • Environmental Conditions: Road surface, lighting, and weather at the time.
  • Witness Statements: Formal interviews with any identified eyewitnesses.

Community Impact and Call for Information:

The crash resulted in a tragic loss of life. Community expressions of sympathy were noted online, including mentions of the “Richard Phillips Down Biker Fund” as a potential support resource.

MPD specifically requests anyone with factual information about the crash, particularly dashcam footage, to contact the Traffic Homicide Unit directly. Tipsters should call Officer Costello at 321-616-6027.

The Melbourne Police Department will release further details as their investigation progresses and conclusions are reached based on verified evidence.