Deadly crash closes all southbound lanes on I-85 in Gwinnett, police say

A major wreck killed a motorcyclist and closed all southbound lanes on Interstate 85 in Gwinnett County for several hours Saturday afternoon, the Georgia Department of Transportation said.

The wreck happened in Suwanee near the Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road Exit 111. 

According to Suwanee police, a motorcyclist hit the back of an SUV near the exit in the northbound HOV lane. The impact caused the motorcycle to launch into the air and over the median wall and into traffic in the southbound lanes. The motorcycle landed on top of a pickup truck. 

Authorities later identified the motorcyclist as 36-year-old Richard Moore Hardison, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

Four people inside of the pickup truck were injured and taken to medical facilities with non-life-threatening injuries.

GDOT said the accident blocked all lanes including the HOV lane. 

Immediately following the crash, traffic was diverted onto the exit ramp at Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road. 

Around 5 p.m., officials reported the roadway had reopened.

No word on any possible charges.

An investigation continues.

This story is developing. Check back for details. If you have additional information, pictures, or video email newstipsatlanta@fox.com.

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