A 32-year-old man from Charlton, New York, was killed Saturday evening in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office. The victim has been identified as Cody Groat, who sustained fatal injuries when his motorcycle left the road during a turn.
The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. on Swaggertown Road. Deputies responded to reports of a serious crash and arrived to find Groat lying near his 2000 Suzuki motorcycle. Investigators say Groat lost control while attempting to navigate a curve, causing the bike to veer off the road and crash. No other vehicles were involved.
Emergency responders and the Saratoga County Coroner arrived on scene and determined that Groat had suffered significant blunt force trauma. He was pronounced dead at the location. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was not transported to a hospital. Officials confirmed that Groat was the only person involved in the crash.
A preliminary investigation concluded that excessive speed was the primary contributing factor. Authorities believe Groat was traveling too fast for the conditions of the roadway, leading to his inability to safely maneuver the turn. There were no immediate indications of impairment, and foul play is not suspected. No charges or further criminal investigation are expected.
Groat’s death has sent shockwaves through the Charlton community, where he was a familiar face. Friends and neighbors have begun to share condolences and memories of him through social media and informal tributes. His loss marks another grim statistic in the rise of motorcycle-related fatalities in the area, prompting renewed calls for safer riding practices.
As the riding season continues and more motorcycles return to the roads, law enforcement is urging motorcyclists to take proper safety precautions. Riders are reminded to wear helmets and protective gear, obey speed limits, and be particularly cautious on rural roads with sharp turns and limited visibility.
The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office considers the investigation into Groat’s death to be complete unless new information comes to light. Anyone with additional details about the incident is encouraged to contact the department to assist in finalizing the case. The community now mourns the loss of a young life taken far too soon, and officials hope the tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety.
