"He went out a hero, he sacrificed himself to save the love of his life," a friend of Newhart's friend told KSLA.
Police say Newhart and West, both 43, were riding together on Newhart's motorcycle when he lost control of his bike and West fell off.
KTBS reported that Newhart was helping West get out of the lane and into safety when an oncoming vehicle hit them both.
"He tossed her out of the way and he got hit point blank," a friend said.
Posted by KSLA News 12 on Monday, August 29, 2016
West is in serious condition at the ICU at LSU Health Sciences Center, Shreveport.
KSLA reported that the couple got engaged a few weeks ago.
"They were set to be married in May and I'm just heartbroken that isn't going to happen," said Alan Joyce, Newhart's stepfather.
Friends and family say they are having a benefit in Newhart's memory Friday.
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