'Wear A Helmet': A Grieving Mother Speaks Out After Her Son Dies In Motorcycle Crash

A grieving mother is asking motorcyclists to wear their helmets after her son was killed in a motorcycle crash over the weekend.

Troopers said the 27-year-old lost control of his bike at Interstate 44 and Kelley Avenue.

Kaleb Powell's mother said it’s hard to come to terms with his sudden death, and even more difficult to accept the possibility that it could have been prevented. 

“Especially night riding, he should have had a helmet on,” said Michael Powell.    

On Saturday morning, Michael Powell and her only child made plans for the future.

“The best heart, I called him my gentle giant,” said Michael Powell. “Said, 'Mom, I can't wait for you to get your bike so we can go ride together.'”

Hours later, Michael Powell got the call that turned her world upside down.

“Kaleb has had a motorcycle accident and he's hit a guardrail,” said Michael Powell.

Troopers said Kaleb Powell was going too fast while negotiating a curve at I-44 and Kelley. Fellow riders were close by.

With her son purchasing the bike just months ago, his mom preached safety.

“We had the helmet talk we've had several talks about safety,” said Michael Powell.           

“Good morning, sunshine! Just funny, he loved to joke around,” said friend and colleague Quintay Talley.  

Quintay Talley worked with Kaleb Powell and shot a video of him working just 24 hours before his death.

“At first I was just in shock, I didn't know what to say,” said Talley.

He said Kaleb Powell was known for his generous heart, work ethic and sense of humor.

While Michael Powell drove home the importance of safety, she can't help but wonder if she could have done more.

“My son is 27-years-old and his life is just beginning, and now, he's gone,” said Michael Powell.

On the job for just a few months, Kaleb Powell had not qualified for insurance.

The family is fundraising for his funeral. Click here to view the GoFundMe page.