Caleb Long was a 21-year-old Union College student who died in a motorcycle crash on November 7, 2023, in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was riding a motorcycle on the intersection of 70th Street and Nebraska Parkway when he collided with an SUV. He was thrown from his bike and suffered fatal injuries. He was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Who Was Caleb Long?
Caleb Long was a young man from Hutchinson, Minnesota, who was studying at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was a junior majoring in business administration and accounting. He was also a member of the college’s soccer team and choir. He was described by his friends and family as a kind, caring, and adventurous person who loved God and people. He had a passion for music, sports, and traveling. He had visited several countries, including Brazil, Peru, and Thailand, as part of his mission trips and educational tours.
What Happened to Caleb Long?
On Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at around 6 p.m., Caleb Long was riding a motorcycle on the intersection of 70th Street and Nebraska Parkway in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was heading south on 70th Street when he crashed into an SUV that was turning left from Nebraska Parkway. The impact caused him to be ejected from his motorcycle and land on the pavement. He sustained severe injuries and was unconscious when the police and paramedics arrived. He was given life-saving measures on the scene and then transported to a nearby hospital. However, he succumbed to his injuries and died shortly after.
Caleb Long: A Union College Student Who Died in a Motorcycle Crash
How Did the Community React to Caleb Long’s Death?
Caleb Long’s death shocked and saddened his family, friends, classmates, and teachers. He was remembered as a bright, cheerful, and generous person who touched many lives with his smile and kindness. He was also praised for his academic achievements, athletic skills, and musical talents. His funeral was held on November 12, 2023, at the Hutchinson Seventh-day Adventist Church in Minnesota. Hundreds of people attended the service to pay their respects and honor his memory. His college also held a memorial service on November 14, 2023, at the Union College Church in Nebraska. The college also set up a scholarship fund in his name to help other students pursue their education.
What Are the Lessons Learned from Caleb Long’s Accident?
Caleb Long’s accident was a tragic and unfortunate event that could have been prevented. It serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the risks of motorcycle riding. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycles are more likely to be involved in fatal crashes than cars. In 2020, there were 5,015 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in the United States, accounting for 14% of all traffic fatalities. Some of the common causes of motorcycle crashes are speeding, alcohol impairment, lack of helmet use, and failure to yield the right of way. Therefore, it is essential for motorcyclists and other drivers to follow the traffic rules, be alert and attentive, and wear protective gear. By doing so, they can reduce the chances of accidents and save lives.