A motorcycle operator whose vehicle clipped the rear of an SUV on the westbound Thruway in Hamburg Friday morning was taken by Mercy Flight to Erie County Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition.

Travis M. Braun, 26, of Eggert Road, Buffalo, was being treated in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit following the crash that occurred shortly after 8:30 a. m. on the westbound Thruway, between the Blasdell and Hamburg exits, state police reported.

The SUV was changing lanes, from the passing to the driving lane, when the motorcycle clipped the rear driver’s side of the vehicle, according to troopers.

No charges have been filed and the investigation is continuing, Sgt. John P. McGee said.

At least one lane had to be closed near the end of the morning rush hour for the Mercy Flight helicopter to land.