HANCOCK COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATES FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH NEAR GREENFIELD
Hancock County, IN — May 18, 2025 — A tragic crash involving a motorcycle and an SUV claimed the life of one man and left a woman critically injured Saturday evening, prompting a full investigation by local law enforcement and emergency personnel.
At approximately 5:13 p.m., the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting a serious crash at the intersection of County Road 400 West and U.S. Highway 40, located between Greenfield and Cumberland. Upon arrival, deputies immediately called for the Hancock County Fatal Accident Crash Team (F.A.C.Team) to assist, citing the severe nature of the collision.
Crash Involved Harley Davidson Motorcycle and Chevrolet Equinox
The collision involved a 2004 Harley Davidson motorcycle and a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox SUV. According to the Sheriff’s Office, initial findings from the crash investigation indicate that the Equinox was traveling southbound on CR 400 West and came to a stop at the intersection with US 40. The driver then attempted to turn left (eastbound) onto US 40, directly into the path of the westbound Harley Davidson, which had the right-of-way and was not required to stop.
The motorcycle did not have time to avoid the Equinox and collided with the passenger side of the SUV, ejecting both the rider and the passenger from the motorcycle.
One Fatality, One Critically Injured
Tragically, the motorcycle driver, Mr. Eric Edwards, age 53, of Greenfield, was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash. His passenger, Ms. Donna Gross, age 52, also of Greenfield, was rushed by ambulance to Methodist Hospital in critical condition. While her injuries are severe, medical personnel reported that she is expected to survive.
Authorities confirmed that neither Edwards nor Gross was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Equinox Driver Uninjured, Toxicology Testing Conducted
The driver of the Chevrolet Equinox, Ms. Cheyenne Higsby, 18, of Greenfield, was uninjured in the collision. As part of standard protocol in fatal crashes, she submitted to toxicology testing, though there is no immediate indication of impairment. Results are pending, and no charges have been filed at this time.
Investigators emphasize that the Equinox had a stop sign, while the Harley Davidson did not. Based on the preliminary analysis, the motorcycle was traveling westbound with the right-of-way when it was struck by the SUV.
Road Closure and Ongoing Investigation
The area around the crash site was closed for several hours as investigators with the Hancock County Fatal Accident Crash Team conducted detailed scene analysis, collected evidence, and began reconstructing the series of events that led to the tragedy.
The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the incident. No citations or arrests have been announced at this time, pending a full review of the crash data, witness statements, and toxicology results.
Community and Official Response
A coordinated response to the crash came from multiple agencies including the Greenfield Police Department, Fortville Police Department, New Palestine Police Department, Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office, Hancock County Coroner’s Office, and Sugar Creek Township Fire Department.
In a statement released Sunday, the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office urged caution and vigilance from all drivers:
“This crash is a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerability of motorcycle riders on our roads. We ask all motorists to look twice, be patient, and yield the right-of-way where required. We also strongly encourage all motorcycle riders to wear helmets and other protective gear to increase their chances of survival in a crash.”
Remembering Eric Edwards
Friends and family of Eric Edwards are mourning the sudden loss of a man remembered as passionate about riding and active in the Greenfield community. Condolences and tributes have poured in on social media as word of the fatal crash spread.
Plans for a memorial service have not yet been announced.
How You Can Help
The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate and is asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward.
If you have information related to this case, you are urged to contact the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office at (317) 477-1199.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.