DANVILLE — The Mount Gilead post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash involving a motorcycle. The fatal crash occurred on Saturday, June 22 at approximately 1:28 p.m. on State Route 514 near milepost 4 in Jefferson Township, Knox County.
William J. Burkhart, age 52, of Wooster, Ohio, was driving a 2017 black Harley Davidson motorcycle northbound on State Route 514. Tara R. Demers, age 45, Fredericktown, was driving a 2015 gray Nissan Altima southbound on State Route 514. Mr. Burkart failed to negotiate a corner, overturned, crossed the centerline, and was ejected into the southbound lane. Ms. Demers vehicle struck Mr. Burkart after he was ejected from the motorcycle. The motorcycle continued off the left side of the roadway and struck an embankment. Mr. Burkart was transported by AirEvac back to Grant Medical Center where he later succumbed to his injuries. Ms. Demers Did not sustain injuries from the crash
Mr. Burkart was not wearing a helmet. Alcohol and drugs are not suspected factors in this crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, Eastern Knox EMS, and Eastern Knox Fire Department.
The traffic crash remains under investigation.
