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Firefighter struck in hit-and-run, motorcycle rider killed in crash

The Niagara County Sheriff's Office is looking for assistance locating a motor vehicle that struck a Rapids Volunteer firefighter at the intersection of Tonawanda Creek and Minnick roads just before 10 p.m. Sunday.

The sheriff said the firefighter was directing traffic at the intersection because Tonawanda Creek Road was closed due to an accident. A vehicle, described as a newer white Dodge 1500 pick-up, struck the firefighter and then fled the scene.

The truck is described as having black pin-striping approximately 1-1/2" wide that runs from the rear of the vehicle to the front, just above the door handle. It may have front end or side damage.

The firefighter is being treated at Erie County Medical Center for serious physical injuries. Anyone with information should contact Investigator Marc Reele of the Criminal Investigation Bureau at 438-3327.

On Monday night, a Williamsville man was killed from what police say was a motorcycle accident.

Genesee County sheriff's deputies responded to Sliker Road in Pembroke about 7 p.m. for a report of a man lying unconscious in a field. Pembroke Fire, Indian Falls Fire, Alabama Fire and Mercy EMS attempted CPR, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The sheriff has identified him as Michael Block, 60.

Block apparently failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway and lost control of his motorcycle. The sheriff said he struck several trees and his helmet was wedged in one of the trees, before he came to rest in the field.