PREBLE COUNTY, OH — A deadly crash involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck claimed the life of a 61-year-old woman on Tuesday afternoon in Preble County. The Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed the fatal incident in a statement released Wednesday morning, marking another tragic loss on local roads.
The crash happened around 4:12 p.m. on June 3 along Eaton Gettysburg Road, near Spacht Road. Troopers say a Harley-Davidson FXD motorcycle was heading northwest when it struck the rear of a Toyota Tacoma pickup truck. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but officials are reviewing several possible factors, including road conditions, speed, and visibility at the time of the collision.
The motorcyclist, identified as Katherine Dailey of New Paris, Ohio, suffered critical injuries in the crash. Emergency responders arrived quickly and attempted to save her life, but she died while being taken to a nearby hospital. The Preble County Coroner’s Office later confirmed her identity and declared her deceased. It is not yet known if the driver of the pickup truck was injured.
In response to the crash, Eaton Gettysburg Road was shut down in both directions for more than three hours as law enforcement and rescue crews worked at the scene. Agencies including the Preble County Sheriff’s Office, Eaton Fire and EMS, Bud Reid’s Towing, and the Coroner’s Office all assisted with the investigation and cleanup efforts. The road was reopened to traffic shortly before 8 p.m.
As of now, no charges or citations have been filed. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation, reviewing physical evidence and witness statements. Authorities are also expected to consider toxicology results and vehicle data to determine whether any violations or contributing behaviors played a role in the crash.
The loss of Katherine Dailey has left her community in mourning. Friends and family members have begun sharing messages of grief and support online. Her death also serves as a painful reminder of how vulnerable motorcyclists are in traffic. Officials are once again urging drivers to stay alert, keep a safe following distance, and watch for motorcycles—especially during the busy summer travel season. Anyone who witnessed the crash is encouraged to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol or the Preble County Sheriff’s Office.
