Eddy County — On Friday August 3, 2012, at approximately 9:28 P.M., Officers from the New Mexico State Police responded to the scene of a two vehicle crash on US Highway 62/180, near milepost 57.

Initial investigation by the New Mexico State Police determined a1998 Mercury passenger vehicle and a 2001 Yamaha motorcycle were both traveling westbound on US Highway 62/180. The Mercury was also hauling a Mitsubishi Eclipse on a trailer dolly. The Mercury was driven by Leoroldo Romo, age 37, of Juarez, Mexico. The Yamaha motorcycle was driven Larry Baze, age 57, of Tatum, New Mexico.

The Mercury, which was hauling the Mitsubishi, was ahead of the motorcycle. As the motorcycle approached the Mercury it rear ended the vehicle in tow. After the collision Mr. Baze was ejected from the motorcycle.

Mr. Baze was transported to Carlsbad Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

The contributing factors in this crash have been identified as driver inattention, excessive speed and failure to utilize a motorcycle helmet.

Alcohol was not a contributing factor.

Contact: Lieutenant Robert McDonald

nmsp.pio@state.nm.usTatum Man Killed in Mororcycle Crash 08-04-12