TUSCARAWAS TOWNSHIP, OH — An 82-year-old man from Brewster died Wednesday evening following a motorcycle crash on State Route 241. The Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed that the incident occurred around 6 p.m., near the intersection of State Route 93, in Tuscarawas Township.
The victim, identified as Larry Durben, was traveling southbound when his motorcycle veered off the right side of the road. Authorities said the bike struck a ditch, causing it to flip and land on top of him. Emergency crews from Brewster EMS arrived at the scene and quickly transported Durben to Aultman Hospital. Despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead from the injuries sustained in the crash.
Officials noted that Durben was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, a factor that may have worsened the severity of his injuries. Helmet use is strongly recommended by safety experts, especially for older riders who face greater risks in motorcycle accidents. The crash has renewed calls for increased awareness and safety precautions among motorcyclists across the region.
The cause of the accident is still under investigation. Authorities have not yet confirmed if weather, speed, or mechanical failure played a role in the crash. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is examining the motorcycle, reviewing the crash site, and seeking possible eyewitness accounts to better understand what led to the tragedy.
Larry Durben was known in Brewster as a longtime resident with a passion for motorcycles. Friends and neighbors described him as an experienced rider who enjoyed the freedom of the open road. His sudden death has left the community in mourning, with many expressing their sadness and support for his family during this difficult time.
As the investigation continues, local officials are urging motorcyclists to wear protective gear, obey traffic laws, and exercise extra caution, especially on rural roads and at intersections. The Ohio State Highway Patrol encourages anyone with additional information about the crash to come forward. Authorities hope that learning more about the circumstances of this accident will help prevent similar tragedies in the future and promote safer riding habits throughout the area.