2 motorcyclists killed in separate traffic accidents during Lone Star Rally in Galveston

GALVESTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Galveston police are investigating two separate traffic deaths related to this year's Lone Star motorcycle rally.

The incidents happened within two hours of each other Friday. In one case, a motorcycle spun out of control, and the driver died from head injuries. The second involved a bike that went off the seawall. The driver had minor injuries, but the woman on back of the motorcycle died at the hospital from a traumatic head injury.

Galveston police would like to stress the importance of wearing proper protective equipment when you ride a motorcycle, including a helmet.

This may be the largest Lone Star Rally yet for Galveston. The previous attendance was said to be 500,000.

"I wouldn't be surprised that this was more than 700,000," said Galveston police Captain Joshua Schirard, who coordinates law enforcement and public safety for the four-day event.

"Right now, we're going from accident to accident, and fortunately most of them are minor," he said. "

Yesterday's fatal accidents happened within two hours of each other.

"With an event like this, safety is of utmost importance," Schirard said. "People need to be proactive about their safety, and wearing a helmet is one of the best precautions you can take."

The rally ends Sunday evening.

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