One Man Killed in Motorcycle Accident in Pittsylvania County

Virginia State Police investigating two-vehicle crash that resulted in a fatality

Mar. 23, 2026 at 4:50pm

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A 63-year-old man from Danville, Virginia was killed in a motorcycle accident in Pittsylvania County on Sunday evening. The crash occurred when the motorcyclist failed to yield the right-of-way while making a left turn and was struck by a pickup truck. The motorcyclist, identified as James Dillard Ley, II, was wearing a helmet but died on the way to the hospital. The driver of the pickup truck was uninjured.

Why it matters

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protection for the rider. This incident highlights the importance of safe driving practices and right-of-way laws, especially in rural areas with higher speed limits.

The details

According to Virginia State Police, the crash occurred at 5:39 p.m. on Franklin Turnpike at Beverly Road in Pittsylvania County. A 2009 Harley Davidson motorcycle operated by James Dillard Ley, II failed to yield the right-of-way while making a left turn and was struck by a 2007 Toyota Tundra pickup truck. Ley, who was wearing a helmet, died while being transported to the hospital. The driver of the Toyota was not injured.

  • The crash occurred at 5:39 p.m. on Sunday, March 23, 2026.

The players

James Dillard Ley, II

A 63-year-old man from Danville, Virginia who was operating the Harley Davidson motorcycle involved in the fatal crash.

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What’s next

Virginia State Police continue to investigate the cause of the crash.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for all drivers, whether in cars or on motorcycles, to exercise caution and follow right-of-way laws to prevent serious accidents, especially in rural areas with higher speed limits.