Nathan James Smith 05-24-09

Three-wheeler crash kills rider near Fox

The Associated Press

Published: May 25th, 2009

FAIRBANKS -- Alaska State Troopers say a 32-year-old man died in an all-terrain-vehicle accident at Olnes Pond near Fairbanks.

Nathan James Smith was camping with friends at the popular spot off the Elliott Highway north of Fox on Sunday. He went for a solo ride on his three-wheel ATV about 11 p.m.

When he hadn't returned an hour later, a friend went to look for him and discovered the crash scene on the Alyeska access road to the trans-Alaska oil pipeline.

Smith was not wearing a helmet. Troopers say speed and alcohol are believed to be factors in the crash.