Two people were killed Sunday morning in a motorcycle crash in De Soto, according to a news release from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

About 8 a.m., officers responded to a report of a motorcycle accident near Vaughn Road and Jimmy Lane. At the scene, officers determined a 2012 Yamaha motorcycle was traveling westbound on Vaughn Road when the driver attempted a 90 degree turn, veered off the road and struck a tree, according to the sheriff’s office.

Both occupants were thrown from the motorcycle, police said.

William S. Skelton, 34, of Johnston City, was pronounced dead at the scene by the deputy coroner. Heather L. Basenberg, 27, of Du Quoin, died of her injuries at an area hospital, police said.

Staff writer Shannon Allen can be reached at 618-536-3326, sallen@dailyegyptian.com or on Twitter @ShannonAllen_DE.

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