Motorcyclist killed in fiery crash with 18-wheeler

GALVESTON, TX It happened late Monday night on Harborside Drive in Galveston, between 37th and 51st Streets. The motorcyclist was killed instantly when his bike crashed head-on into that semi. The two vehicles exploded and the load of furniture in the big rig fed the flames.

Minutes before the crash, a Galveston police officer was pursuing the motorcycle rider, who was reportedly going as fast as 100 miles per hour. The officer stopped the pursuit and then minutes later, the crash happened.

The Department of Public Safety says the 30-year-old motorcycle driver was late for his job with the Coast Guard when the accident happened. They say it is unclear if the man knew police were pursuing him.

The semi driver was not hurt, but he was taken to John Sealy Hospital for observation.