LAUREL – Delaware State Police identified the man killed in a Saturday crash on Ralph Road, east of Waycross Road, in Laurel, as Robert Martinson, 51, of Laurel.

Police say the incident occurred at approximately 3:47 p.m. as a 2006 Harley Davidson MC, driven by Mr. Martinson, was traveling westbound on Ralphs Road, east of Waycross Road. The motorcycle was approaching a sharp left curve in the roadway at an apparent high rate of speed, according to police.

The operator failed to negotiate the curve and exited the north edge of the road onto the soft grassy shoulder. He continued to ride the motorcycle, while the vehicle was in a right side yaw for a brief period of time before entering a wooded line. The motorcycle then collided with a maple tree, ejecting Mr. Martinson forward.

The operator, who was not wearing a helmet, was pronounced deceased at the crash scene. Speed is being considered as a factor in the crash, police say.

Ralph Road in the area of the crash was closed for approximately 3 1/2 hours as the crash was investigated and cleared.