The crash occurred shortly after 12:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 27, when a Virginia State Police trooper observed the motorcycle flying eastbound on I-66 near Nutley Street, according to officials.
When the trooper attempted a traffic stop, the rider refused to stop and sped away, resulting in a brief pursuit, police said.
The trooper quickly ended the pursuit for safety reasons and slowed down, but moments later discovered a collision involving the same motorcycle and an SUV.
The impact caused the motorcycle to catch fire, according to state police.
The trooper attempted to douse the flames with a fire extinguisher and received assistance from fire and rescue crews.
The motorcyclist died on the scene. Their identity is still pending confirmation.
According to investigators, the motorcycle struck the SUV’s rear passenger side. The SUV’s driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital.
Virginia State Police continue to investigate the crash.
