Most unfortunate. I can't quite make out what model of bike it is.
Either way, this is probably a good time to point folks to the homepage for the motorcycle safety foundation:
http://www.msf-usa.org/
If you want to learn how to ride or improve your skills, the best thing you can do is take one of their rider courses. Comes with a nice insurance discount too.
Ride safely, folks. Wear your gear. It's too early in the season for stories like this.
Unfortunately "early in the season" is when you see 'em. New, unfamiliar bikes and rusty reflexes are a bad combination.