Robert G. Schachle 2011-01-23

Snowmachine crash kills helmetless driver

By LISA DEMER, ldemer@adn.com, Published: January 23rd, 2011

A Houston man riding his snowmachine early Sunday on a path that runs alongside the Parks Highway died after crashing into a utility pole, Alaska State Troopers say.

Robert G. Schachle, 46, had a weak pulse when medics first got to him but died before reaching the hospital, troopers said. He wasn't wearing a helmet. Troopers say they believe alcohol was a factor.

Troopers got a 911 call about the crash at Mile 51.5 at about 4 a.m. It appears that Schachle may have gotten into some powder when he ran into the pole. The initial investigation suggests he was catapulted over the handlebars and hit the light pole.

Find Lisa Demer online at adn.com/contact/ldemer or call 257-4390.