A tragic accident early Monday morning has left a local community in mourning following the death of a 62-year-old motorcyclist in western Hamilton County. According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred on June 2, 2025, in Crosby Township and involved a motorcycle and a pickup truck. The victim has been identified as John Messer, a longtime resident of the area and a well-known figure in the local community.
The crash happened around 6:30 a.m. near the intersection of Baughman Road and New Haven Road, an area frequently traveled by commuters heading to and from work. Investigators with the sheriff’s Traffic Safety Unit say Messer was riding his motorcycle eastbound when, for reasons still under investigation, a pickup truck traveling in the opposite direction attempted a left turn in front of him. The motorcycle collided with the front passenger side of the truck, resulting in catastrophic injuries to Messer.
Emergency medical personnel were quickly dispatched to the scene, and Messer was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite the efforts of first responders and trauma staff, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival due to the severity of his injuries.
The driver of the pickup truck, who has not yet been publicly identified, remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement officers. Authorities have not released information on whether drugs, alcohol, or speed were factors in the crash, though toxicology reports are pending. No charges have been filed at this time, and the incident remains under active investigation.
John Messer was remembered by neighbors and friends as a passionate motorcyclist, loving husband, and proud grandfather. Known for his friendly demeanor and willingness to lend a helping hand, Messer had been a familiar face in the community for decades. A retired tradesman, he spent much of his time enjoying scenic rides through rural Ohio and attending motorcycle meet-ups with fellow enthusiasts.
“He was the kind of person who would stop and help a stranger with a flat tire,” said longtime friend and riding partner Tom Langley. “John loved his bike, but he loved his family more. He was just weeks away from celebrating his 63rd birthday.”
Crosby Township officials expressed their condolences in a public statement Monday afternoon. “We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Mr. John Messer,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all those affected by this tragedy. We urge everyone to drive with caution and remain vigilant on the roads, especially when sharing the roadway with motorcycles.”
Motorcycle safety advocates have long emphasized the need for increased awareness, particularly during warmer months when riders are more prevalent on the roads. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, nearly 200 motorcyclists lost their lives on Ohio roadways in 2024 alone. Advocates stress that left-turn collisions, like the one that took Messer’s life, are among the most common and deadly types of accidents involving motorcycles.
In the wake of the accident, residents in Crosby Township have called for potential improvements to the intersection where the crash occurred. Some have suggested adding better signage or considering a traffic signal, citing past incidents and the dangerous nature of the crossing.
