John Messer, 62, Killed in Early Morning Motorcycle Crash in Western Hamilton County
CROSBY TOWNSHIP, OH — A tragic early morning collision claimed the life of a motorcyclist on Monday, June 2, 2025, in western Hamilton County, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. The victim has been identified as John Messer, 62, a resident of the area.
The fatal crash occurred shortly before 5:00 a.m. at the intersection of New Haven Road and Jacob Road in Crosby Township, a rural part of the county located northwest of Cincinnati. According to investigators, Messer was riding a motorcycle when it collided with an SUV under circumstances that remain under investigation.
Emergency Response and Weather Challenges
First responders from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and local EMS units rushed to the scene. Messer was critically injured in the crash and transported to Mercy Health – Harrison Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Emergency air transport, Air Care, was requested due to the severity of Messer’s injuries, but the mission was aborted because of dangerous flying conditions. Heavy fog and limited visibility, with reports of only a half-mile of visibility at Lunken Airport, prevented the helicopter from taking off.
Road Closures and Investigation
In the aftermath of the crash, New Haven Road was shut down between Dry Fork and Oxford roads for nearly three hours as investigators reconstructed the scene and cleared the wreckage. The road reopened to traffic shortly before 8 a.m.
Authorities have confirmed that the driver of the SUV involved in the crash was not injured. As of this time, no charges or citations have been announced, and the crash remains under investigation by the Hamilton County Traffic Safety Unit.
A Life Remembered
John Messer’s death has left his family and the local community in mourning. Known to many as a passionate motorcycle enthusiast, he was frequently seen riding on the scenic country roads of western Hamilton County. Friends and neighbors described him as a kind-hearted man who was always willing to lend a helping hand and share a laugh.
“He loved the open road and the freedom of riding,” said one neighbor. “This is a terrible loss for everyone who knew him.”
Messer is survived by his family, including several children and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Ongoing Investigation
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office continues to gather information and urges any witnesses or individuals who may have seen the crash to come forward. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Traffic Unit directly.
Crash Summary:
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Victim: John Messer, 62
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Date/Time: Monday, June 2, 2025, shortly before 5 a.m.
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Location: New Haven Rd. & Jacob Rd., Crosby Township, Hamilton County, OH
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Vehicles Involved: Motorcycle (Messer) and SUV (driver uninjured)
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Air Care Status: Mission aborted due to fog
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Road Closure: New Haven Rd. closed for ~3 hours
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Investigation: Ongoing by Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office
May John Messer rest in peace, and may his family find comfort during this difficult time.