Motorcyclist killed after striking car-hauling tractor-trailer turning at New Kings Road and Soutel Drive

Crash reported before sunrise on Jacksonville’s Northside

A motorcyclist died Thursday, February 5, 2026, after a collision with a tractor-trailer at the intersection of New Kings Road and Soutel Drive in Northwest Jacksonville. The crash was reported at approximately 5:50 a.m., during early-morning traffic hours.

The rider was described as a man in his 40s. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities had not released the man’s name as of Thursday morning.

What investigators say happened

Investigators said the motorcycle was traveling southbound on New Kings Road when it struck the rear of a tractor-trailer hauling cars. The tractor-trailer was attempting a left turn from northbound New Kings Road onto westbound Soutel Drive at the time of impact.

The collision occurred at a signalized intersection that serves as a major connector for surrounding neighborhoods and commercial corridors on Jacksonville’s Northside. Officials did not immediately provide information on speed, visibility conditions, impairment indicators, or whether any traffic citations were issued.

Immediate response and roadway impacts

Police and other emergency crews responded to the scene, where the motorcyclist was declared deceased. As with many serious crashes at major intersections, the response typically involves securing the area, documenting vehicle positions and debris fields, and gathering preliminary statements while traffic is rerouted or slowed.

Authorities did not provide a detailed estimate of how long traffic was disrupted at New Kings Road and Soutel Drive, but drivers in the area were advised to expect delays during the morning commute timeframe.

What remains unknown

Key elements of the investigation had not been publicly detailed Thursday morning, including the following:

• The identity of the motorcyclist and notification status of next of kin
• The tractor-trailer driver’s identity and whether any injuries were reported
• Signal phase details, including the traffic light status for each direction of travel
• Whether braking, mechanical issues, or lane positioning contributed to the collision
• Any available video evidence from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, or vehicle systems

The intersection and turning movements involved are expected to be a focus of the crash reconstruction, particularly the timing and geometry of the tractor-trailer’s left turn and the motorcycle’s approach.

Next steps in the case

Traffic investigators are expected to continue reviewing physical evidence and any available recordings, and to complete a formal crash report. Additional information may be released as the investigation progresses, including the motorcyclist’s identity and any findings related to contributing factors.

This article will be updated as authorities provide confirmed details.