Waukesha man charged in New Berlin crash that killed motorcyclist
A 23-year-old Waukesha man has been charged in a crash that killed a motorcyclist in October.
Edi R. Gomez was late for his job at McDonald's in Muskego on Oct. 11 when he tried to pass James Solveson on the shoulder of Racine Ave. then lost control of his SUV and hit the motorcyclist, according to a criminal complaint released Wednesday.
Solveson, 58, of Waukesha, was thrown from his bike, lost his helmet, struck his head on a metal pole and died at the scene. The crash happened near Mill Creek Trail in New Berlin about 7 a.m.
Gomez's SUV flipped three times. He was taken by helicopter to Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa for treatment. Gomez initially told investigators the motorcycle tried to pass him on the right, forcing him to brake, and roll.
When told his account differed from those of other drivers, Gomez admitted he had been tailgating the motorcycle and tried to pass on the right, and that he knew his driver's license was suspended at the time.
Gomez is charged with homicide by negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and knowingly driving while suspended, causing death. He is being held at the Waukesha County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bail.
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