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US Army Reservist killed after falling from I-295 overpass

Posted at 6:47 AM, Aug 03, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-03 13:21:25-04

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va., -- A US Army Reservist, who was just a week from deploying overseas, was killed in a motorcycle crash on Interstate 295 late Tuesday night.

Investigators said Dennis Painter, 44, of Hopewell, and a friend were riding their motorcycles on the I-295 overpass near Route 10 in Chester when they lost control of their bikes around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The Hopewell man was thrown over the concrete barrier on the ramp and fell 25 feet down on to Route 10 below, according to troopers.

Painter was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Anytime a life is lost on a Virginia highway is a tragedy,” said Sgt Stephan Vick.

The other motorcyclist, identified as 38-year-old Jeremiah Tomlin, was arrested and charged with DUI.

Tomlin was not injured, according to troopers.

Jeremiah Tomlin

Jeremiah Tomlin

The investigation into what caused Painter to crash remains ongoing, however investigators said both speed and alcohol likely played a role.

Investigators said Painter was not wearing a DOT approved safety helmet.

The accident shut down the ramp from Route 10 to I-295 and the right lane on I-295. Both have since reopened.

Painter is survived by a wife and two children.

This is a developing story. Anyone with additional information can submit a news tip here.

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