Motorcyclist Killed in Late-Night Crash With SUV South of Sidney
SHELBY COUNTY, OH — A late-night crash involving a motorcycle and an SUV south of Sidney has left one man dead, marking the second fatal motorcycle accident in Shelby County in less than 24 hours.
The collision occurred just before 11:30 p.m. Friday at the intersection of County Road 25-A and Kirkwood Road in Orange Township, approximately three miles south of Sidney.
Details of the Crash
According to Sergeant David Egbert of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, the driver of a Jeep Renegade was traveling eastbound on Kirkwood Road when he failed to stop at the intersection. The Jeep entered into the path of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle that was traveling north on County Road 25-A.
The impact was devastating. Authorities say the motorcycle was thrown roughly 30 yards north of the intersection, ultimately coming to rest in a nearby cornfield. The motorcyclist, described by officials as a younger male, was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released pending notification of family.
Officials confirmed the victim was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
The Jeep’s driver, whose name has also not been released, was uninjured. Sgt. Egbert said the driver indicated that a dip in the roadway approaching the intersection may have limited his visibility, preventing him from seeing the motorcycle until it was too late.
Investigation Underway
Authorities noted that toxicology testing will be performed to determine whether alcohol, drugs, or any other impairment may have played a role in the crash. At this time, no charges have been filed.
The roadway was closed for approximately 90 minutes while investigators processed the scene and emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage. Units from Sidney Fire, Lockington Fire, Shelby County EMS, the Shelby County Coroner, and the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office all responded to the scene.
The investigation is being led by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and remains ongoing.
Second Fatal Motorcycle Crash in One Day
Friday’s crash marks the second deadly motorcycle accident in Shelby County within a single day. Just eight hours earlier, a 38-year-old man from Kentucky was killed in Sidney when his motorcycle collided with the back of a pickup truck in slowing traffic on Interstate 75 near Fair Road.
Both incidents highlight the dangers motorcyclists face on Ohio’s roadways, particularly during the late summer riding season. Law enforcement officials continue to urge drivers to remain alert at intersections and for motorcyclists to use all available safety equipment, including helmets, which can significantly reduce the risk of fatal injuries.
