Motorcyclist killed in fiery Loop 101 crash in Tempe

TEMPE, Ariz. - A large portion of Loop 101 in Tempe was backed up due to a deadly motorcycle crash near University Drive on Saturday, July 22.

Authorities say two vehicles were involved in the fiery crash. 

According to the Dept. of Public Safety, a motorcyclist was riding northbound on Loop 101 when he failed to slow down for stopped traffic. There had been an earlier collision further up the freeway.

The motorcycle slammed into the back of a car, catching fire in the process. The motorcyclist died from his injuries.

He was identified as 46-year-old Phillip Leroy, a Chandler resident.

Drivers were seen driving the wrong way up a freeway on-ramp to get out of the traffic jam.