By Vanessa Fultz, Democrat Reporter
A Live Oak man died Sunday night from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident in Columbia County.
Martin G. Lee, 44, of Live Oak, was killed when his 2003 Yamaha struck a car at about 8:30 p.m. Sunday, according to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol. Lee's passenger, Denise L. Goyette, 39, also of Live Oak, suffered serious injuries in the crash.
Both the motorcycle and a 2003 Chevrolet SUV driven by Staci L. Balance, 27, of Lake City, were northbound on SR 247 approaching the intersection at SR 247 and SW Dairy Street, when Balance stopped to make a left turn onto SW Siloam Street, said FHP. As Balance was turning, Lee's motorcycle struck the right rear corner of the SUV, ejecting both riders. The motorcycle rotated counter clockwise and rolled onto its right coming to a rest on the northbound shoulder of SR 247. Gloree Balance, 2, of Lake City, a passenger in the SUV, was not injured.
Lee and Goyette were transported to Shands Gainesville, where Lee died from his injuries. Goyette was listed in fair condition Monday morning.
According to FHP, neither Lee nor Goyette was wearing a helmet.