Motorbike Rider Brayden Taylor Killed in Hocking Crash Mourned as a “Beloved Brother, Uncle, and Mate” – March 1, 2025

Incident Overview
Brayden Taylor, a 30-year-old motorbike rider from Perth, tragically lost his life in a crash at the intersection of East Road and Lenore Road in Hocking on Thursday, February 29, 2025 , at approximately 5:30 am . The collision involved his black and gold Suzuki motorcycle and a Toyota HiAce van. Despite the efforts of emergency services, Brayden could not be saved and died at the scene. The van driver, a 46-year-old man, was uninjured.

Brayden’s death has left his family, friends, and community devastated. Remembered as a generous and kind-hearted individual, he is being mourned as a beloved brother, uncle, and mate who would go out of his way to help anyone in need. Major Crash investigators are appealing for information to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.

Location and Time
The crash occurred at the intersection of East Road and Lenore Road in Hocking , a suburb in Perth’s northern outskirts. The incident took place during the early morning hours at approximately 5:30 am on Thursday, February 29, 2025 , when traffic volumes were likely lower but visibility may have been limited due to pre-dawn conditions.

Vehicles Involved
The crash involved two vehicles:

• A black and gold Suzuki motorcycle ridden by Brayden Taylor.
• A Toyota HiAce van driven by a 46-year-old man.

The collision occurred at the intersection, leaving Brayden fatally injured. The van driver remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities.

Crash Description
According to police reports, Brayden Taylor was traveling on his Suzuki motorcycle along East Road when it collided with the Toyota HiAce van at the intersection with Lenore Road. The impact of the crash was severe, and Brayden succumbed to his injuries at the scene despite the efforts of emergency responders.

The van driver, a 46-year-old man, was uninjured and remained at the scene to assist with investigations. Major Crash investigators are examining factors such as speed, road conditions, and whether either party failed to yield at the intersection. Authorities are also appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage to assist in their inquiries.

Injuries/Fatalities

• Brayden Taylor, 30, tragically died at the scene despite the efforts of emergency services.

The van driver was uninjured in the crash.

Emergency Response
Emergency services, including paramedics and police, were called to the scene shortly after the crash was reported. Paramedics worked to revive Brayden but were unable to save him. Police secured the area and conducted a thorough investigation, examining skid marks, vehicle damage, and witness statements to determine the cause of the crash.

Major Crash investigators are continuing their inquiry and have appealed for information from the public. Anyone with dashcam footage or details about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1800 333 000 or submitting a report online at www.crimestoppers.com.au .

Community Impact
Brayden Taylor’s death has deeply affected his family, friends, and the broader Perth community. Described as a man with “a heart of gold,” Brayden was known for his generosity and willingness to help others in need.

His sister, Kalika Taylor, shared heartfelt memories of her brother, highlighting his love for anything with wheels. “He had a heart of gold and would help anyone,” she said. She recalled childhood stories of Brayden’s determination, such as when he fractured his wrist twice while skateboarding but returned to the skatepark as soon as his cast came off.

Brayden’s mother, Penny Taylor, described herself as an “emotional wreck” following the loss of her son. She visited the crash site to reflect on the place where Brayden took his last breath. Friends and acquaintances have also come forward to share their memories of him, emphasizing his kindness and willingness to lend a helping hand.

To honor Brayden’s memory, his family has launched an online fundraiser to cover funeral expenses and “give him the farewell he deserves.” The campaign has already raised over $5,500 , reflecting the widespread support and love for Brayden.

A funeral service is planned for March 21 , with approximately 300 people expected to attend. Brayden will be laid to rest at Midland Cemetery, alongside his late father.

Investigation
Major Crash investigators are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash, focusing on several key areas:

• The actions of both the motorbike rider and the van driver leading up to the collision.
• Potential contributing factors such as speed, distraction, or failure to yield at the intersection.
• Road conditions and visibility at the time of the crash, particularly given the early morning timing.

Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward. Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1800 333 000 or submitting a report online at www.crimestoppers.com.au .

Contributing Factors
While the investigation is ongoing, potential contributing factors include:

• Driver or rider error, such as failing to yield or misjudging distances at the intersection.
• Possible distractions, such as mobile phone use, affecting either party’s ability to respond appropriately.
• Road conditions or visibility issues at the intersection during the early morning hours.
• The inherent risks associated with motorbike riding, particularly at intersections where larger vehicles like vans are present.