Centerburg, OH — A devastating motorcycle crash in Knox County on Saturday evening claimed the life of a man and left a woman seriously injured. The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) confirmed that the incident occurred around 6:25 p.m. on U.S. Route 36 near the town of Centerburg.
Authorities say the motorcycle was traveling eastbound when, for unknown reasons, it veered off the right side of the road. After leaving the roadway, the motorcycle struck a traffic sign and then slammed into a utility pole. The impact of the crash caused critical injuries to both the driver and the passenger. The motorcyclist, identified as 39-year-old Harry Young IV, was transported to Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus.
Despite efforts by medical staff, Young was later pronounced dead from the injuries he sustained in the crash. His death marks another tragic loss on Ohio’s roadways this year. The female passenger riding with Young also suffered serious injuries. She was taken to Grant Medical Center for treatment. Her identity has not been released, and officials have not provided an update on her current condition. However, they confirmed that her injuries were considered life-threatening at the time of the crash.
Investigators noted that neither Young nor the passenger was wearing a helmet. OSHP officials emphasized that helmet use could significantly reduce the risk of fatal head injuries in motorcycle crashes. While helmet use is not legally required for all riders in Ohio, safety experts strongly recommend it for all motorcyclists and their passengers.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. OSHP troopers are working to determine whether factors such as speed, impairment, road conditions, or mechanical failure contributed to the accident. Witnesses are being interviewed, and the motorcycle is undergoing inspection as part of the ongoing probe.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by motorcyclists on Ohio’s highways. The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to urge riders to wear helmets, obey speed limits, and practice defensive driving. As the investigation continues, authorities extend their condolences to the family and friends of Harry Young IV and hope for the full recovery of the injured passenger. Anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
