SOUTH BEND, IN — A 19-year-old motorcyclist died Wednesday evening after losing control of his bike and colliding with an oncoming vehicle near Jefferson Intermediate School, leaving family and friends devastated by the sudden loss. The St. Joseph County Fatal Crash Team identified the victim as Stephen Michael Dunifin, a South Bend resident whose promising life was cut short in the 7:15 p.m. crash at the intersection of South Eddy and Sample streets.
Preliminary reports indicate Dunifin was traveling southbound on Eddy Street when his motorcycle crossed the center curb, sliding into northbound traffic before striking another vehicle head-on. Despite emergency responders’ efforts, the impact proved fatal, and Dunifin was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators confirmed the other driver emerged unharmed and is fully cooperating with authorities, though no citations have been issued pending further investigation.
While initial findings rule out alcohol or drugs as factors, the Fatal Crash Team continues examining potential causes—including road conditions, mechanical issues, or rider error—as they reconstruct the moments before impact. Forensic teams will scrutinize traffic camera footage, witness accounts, and the motorcycle’s mechanical condition to determine what caused Dunifin to lose control on what witnesses described as a clear evening with dry pavement.
The tragedy has reignited discussions about motorcycle safety, particularly for young riders. Data from the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute shows motorcycle fatalities account for nearly 15% of all traffic deaths statewide, with riders under 25 disproportionately represented. Safety advocates emphasize the lifesaving importance of helmets—which Indiana law doesn’t mandate for riders over 18—and advanced training courses to handle unexpected road hazards.
As Dunifin’s family prepares memorial services, a growing makeshift shrine of flowers and motorcycle memorabilia at the crash site reflects the community’s grief. “Stephen had his whole life ahead of him,” shared a tearful classmate at a vigil Thursday. The FACT team urges witnesses to contact them at (574) 235-9269 as they work to provide answers to Dunifin’s heartbroken loved ones.
This marks St. Joseph County’s third fatal motorcycle crash this year, prompting local safety groups to plan awareness campaigns ahead of the riding season. With investigations ongoing, authorities remind all motorists to share the road responsibly as warmer weather increases two-wheeled traffic
