RESIDENTS have reflected on a “horrible” crash in which a motorcyclist died at the scene.

The incident happened last night (Thursday) at around 6.30pm in Popley Way, near Saint Bede’s Church.

Police say there was a crash involving a Honda CRF motorcycle and Vauxhall Vectra at the junction for Abbey Road.

The motorcyclist, a 34-year-old man from Basingstoke, was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 24-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Various members of the emergency services were reported to be in attendance.

Residents reported fire engines, an ambulance, the critical care unit and several police cars at the scene. However, many were not present for the incident itself.

“We didn’t see what happened,” said one resident of Abbey Road.

“We just saw the lights and wondered what the hell was happening.”

He added: “They did perform CPR for about 15 minutes and then obviously gave up after that. That’s all we can really say and all we really saw.”

Another neighbour recalled seeing the aftermath of the incident.

He said: “The car was halfway across the road [from Popley Way into Abbey Road], as if it was coming up to the junction, and the bike was on the pavement on the other side.”

However, he added that he “didn’t hear a bang, didn’t hear anything.

“As it was Winter we were in doors with the window shut. it was only when my wife went outside that she saw the blue flashing lights.”

Popley Way remained blocked off for “some time” with officers turning vehicles around at the edge of a police cordon, with a number of people standing on the Abbey Road side of the tape.

One witness, who also lives on Abbey Road, added: “We didn’t hear anything. My partner went to look as we thought it was our friend’s son. But we got sent straight back [by police].”

And another said: “We didn’t see anything. It’s horrible isn’t it.”

Others in the area spoke of tailbacks and disruption affecting the roads.

One person wrote on social media at the time: "Finally almost home after being caught up in the tailback after a nasty accident involving a car and a motorcycle on Popley Way.

"It looks nasty with lots of emergency vehicles in attendance."

Another added: "Avoid Popley Way tonight people. Huge accident at the bottom of Abbey road by the church and road has been closed."

The road reopened this morning but police investigations continue.

Officers remain keen to speak with anyone who may have witnessed the incident.

A statement from Hampshire Constabulary added: “Maybe you have a dash cam and captured footage of either of the vehicles in the moments leading up to the collision?

“Anyone with information can call 101, quoting 44200002157. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”