Norwich _ A motorcyclist died early Sunday night after striking a utility pole in the area of 685 North Main St.

According to the police and fire departments, the 7:29 p.m. crash was orginally reported by a passing volunteer firefighter that noticed the downed wires and investigated. He found the motorcycle operator, called 911 and began CPR.

The motorcyclist was treated at the scene for close to 20 minutes before being pronounced dead. Police said it appears the operator of the motorcycle appears to have lost control while negotiating the curve and struck a utility pole. Police said late Sunday night that the operator's identity is being withheld pending notification of family.

Police are investigating the accident. North Main Street remained closed late Sunday night due to the investigation and pole replacement.

Police ask anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact Lt. Thomas Lazzaro or Detective Richard Cannata at (860) 886-5561 ext. 6.