A Grafton, N.D., man involved in a crash that killed two motorcyclists has been charged with two counts of negligent homicide.
John S. Klava, 37, was heading north on U.S. Highway 81 between Minto, N.D., and Grafton, N.D., about 6:30 p.m. July 17 when his 2002 Chrysler minivan collided with a 2007 Harley-Davidson going the other direction. Authorities allege that Klava's minivan crossed the center line and hit the motorcycle.
Bryant Watts, 52, was driving the motorcycle; his wife, Cynthia Watts, 46, was his passenger. The St. Thomas, N.D., couple was pronounced dead at the scene. Klava was taken to Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, where he was treated and released that night.
The North Dakota Highway Patrol and the Walsh County Sheriff's Office investigated the crash. Klava was charged and arrested Monday. He appeared in court Tuesday and was released on bail.
Negligent homicide, a Class C felony, carries a maximum penalty of five years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
