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Motorcyclist Crashes, Ends Up In River In Rutherford, N.J.

RUTHERFORD, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- A man riding a motorcycle went flying into the Passaic River in Rutherford, New Jersey Thursday evening.

As WCBS 880's Jim Smith reported, police said it all started with a crash between the motorcycle and another vehicle on the Route 3 West Bridge high over the river.

Rutherford police Sgt. Craig Capoano said the motorcycle stayed where it was, but the rider went flying.

"His body subsequently flipped over the guard rail into the water," Capoano said. "The drop is about 50 feet."

Motorcyclist Crashes, Ends Up In River In Rutherford, N.J.

The Lodi man, who was in his late 20s, splashed down into nearly 30 feet of water. When police arrived, eh was conscious and breathing.

"He was hanging onto a center pillar underneath the bridge," Capoano said.

Rescue crews used a boat to fish the man out. His condition was reported as stable, and his injuries were not considered life-threatening.

Officers could not believe it.

"My officers are here telling me the story," Capoano said. "It almost seems like a movie."

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