Corpus Christi, TX – The local community is mourning the loss of 64-year-old Johnny Bryant, a well-respected baseball game official, who was killed in a tragic motorcycle crash on Saturday morning, March 15. The accident occurred at approximately 7:26 a.m. at the intersection of Airline and Holly Road on the city’s Southside.
According to the Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD), officers responded to reports of a two-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported Bryant to a nearby hospital, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the pickup truck was uninjured.
Crash Investigation Details
Authorities determined that the pickup truck driver was traveling westbound on Holly Road and attempted to turn south onto Airline Road while facing a flashing yellow turn arrow. At the same time, Bryant was riding his motorcycle east through the intersection when the pickup struck him.
Police cited the pickup driver for failure to yield while making a left turn, though officers confirmed that the driver was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash. It remains unclear whether Bryant was wearing a helmet at the time of impact.
Community Mourning the Loss
Bryant was reportedly on his way to officiate a baseball game when the crash occurred. As a dedicated umpire and a familiar face on the baseball field, he had built a reputation for fairness, professionalism, and passion for the sport. His sudden passing has deeply affected the local sports community, with fellow officials, coaches, and players expressing their grief and paying tribute to his contributions.
“Johnny was more than just an umpire; he was a mentor, a leader, and a friend to so many in the baseball community,” shared a fellow game official. “His dedication to the game and the young athletes he worked with was unmatched. He will be greatly missed.”
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Reminders
The CCPD’s Traffic Investigation Division continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities remind all motorists to exercise caution when making left turns, particularly at flashing yellow signals, to prevent tragic incidents like this.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remembers Johnny Bryant for his unwavering dedication to sports, his kindness, and his impact on countless athletes. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days as family, friends, and the local baseball community prepare to honor his memory.
Bryant’s loss is a sobering reminder of the dangers that motorcyclists face on the road and the need for heightened awareness from all drivers.