A 29-year-old West Union man was killed Wednesday afternoon in a motorcycle crash on Sunrise Avenue near Cosby Street in the Village of West Union.
According to the Georgetown Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 3:16 p.m. when a 2024 Yamaha R7 driven by Ryan D. Dalton struck the rear of a stopped 2025 Volkswagen Atlas. The SUV was driven by Kellen A. Phillips, 44, of Richfield, Ohio.
Dalton suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Adams County Coroner. Phillips was not injured. Troopers said Dalton was wearing a helmet, and Phillips was wearing a seat belt.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the West Union Police Department, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, West Union Fire and EMS, and the Ohio Department of Transportation. The crash remains under investigation.
Dalton’s social media reflected his passion for motorcycles, often featuring bikes as his profile photos. Family and friends have since taken to social media to remember him as a loving father of three whose enthusiasm for riding was matched only by his devotion to his family.
Motorcycle Safety: A Sobering Reminder
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are roughly 24 times more likely to die in a crash and four times more likely to be injured than occupants of passenger vehicles. In Ohio alone, the Highway Patrol reports more than 200 motorcycle fatalities each year, many involving riders under 40.
Even experienced riders like Dalton face risks on rural and suburban roads, where distracted driving, sudden stops, and limited visibility can turn deadly in an instant.
Safety Tips for Riders and Drivers
🚨 For Motorcyclists:
- Always wear a DOT-approved helmet and bright, reflective clothing.
- Keep your headlights on — even during the day.
- Maintain a safe following distance and be alert for vehicles stopping suddenly.
- Never ride impaired or fatigued.
- Take a motorcycle safety course to sharpen your skills — even seasoned riders benefit from refreshers.
🚗 For Drivers:
- Look twice before changing lanes or turning — motorcycles can be easy to miss.
- Give riders the full lane; don’t crowd or pass too closely.
- Be especially cautious at intersections, where nearly 40% of motorcycle crashes occur.
As investigators work to determine exactly what happened on Sunrise Avenue, officials hope this tragedy serves as a reminder for all motorists — whether on two wheels or four — to stay alert, stay visible, and share the road safely.
