MULTIPLE VEHICLE/MOTORCYCLE CRASHES KEEP DEPUTIES BUSY OVER THE WEEKEND

On September 10, 2022, Bartholomew County deputies and surrounding agencies responded to
three motor vehicle crashes involving motorcycles within a two-hour time frame.
 
The first crash, involving a vehicle and a motorcycle, occurred at approximately 4:28 p.m., in the
17000 block of SR58. This crash resulted in the death of the motorcycle driver, who was wearing
safety equipment (helmet, leather jacket, riding gloves and riding boots). This crash remains
under investigation by the Bartholomew County Fatal Accident Crash Team (F.A.C.T.), which
consists of members from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office, Columbus Police
Department and Indiana State Police. Witness statements indicate the motorcycle’s speed was a
likely factor in the crash.
 
The second crash involving a motorcycle and a passenger car, occurred at approximately 5:32
p.m., in the area of W Lowell Rd and N 250 W. This crash resulted in property damage only and
there were no injuries. The motorcycle driver was wearing a helmet. While this crash occurred in
the jurisdiction of the Sheriff’s Office, it was investigated by the Columbus Police Department
while deputies with BCSO were investigating the motorcycle fatality on SR58.
 
The third crash involving a motorcycle occurred at approximately 6:24 p.m., at the intersection
of SR58 and W Seymour Rd. This crash occurred during a group motorcycle ride and involved a
single motorcycle. The driver reported the motorcycle in front of him braked heavily as they
were negotiating a turn causing him to brake heavily. Instead of striking the motorcycle in front
of him, which had a juvenile rider, he conducted a controlled crash resulting in a minor injury to
his shoulder. He was transported to Columbus Regional Hospital for further medical treatment.
The driver was wearing his helmet. During the investigation the driver told Sgt. Andrew
Whipker had he not been wearing his helmet his injuries would have been much more severe.
 
“This is just a reminder for those who operate motorcycles to please use caution with your speed
and be aware of your surroundings,” Chief Deputy Chris Lane said. “I have seen several
motorcycle accidents during my law enforcement career and I just want to reiterate the
importance of motorcycle safety.”
Bartholomew County Sheriff Matthew A. Myers said: “with nice weather, there are more

motorcycles on our roadways.” “There are more kids/people on bicycles and more people
walking and running in our neighborhoods.”
“Please slow down and please be respectful of others.” “We have had several accidents recently
and I don’t want to see anyone else hurt,” said Bartholomew County Sheriff Matthew A. Myers.
 
We extend our most sincere condolences to family/friends of the motorcycle driver killed in a
crash on September 10, 2022.

Post Ad 2