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Warren Township, OH (August 12, 2026) – A 49-year-old man was killed on Tuesday night, August 11, after falling off his e-bike and being struck by two vehicles on Tod Avenue in Warren Township. Troopers responded to the scene near Eighth Street SW just after 9 p.m.
William Blair, of Leavittsburg, had been riding north on Tod Avenue when he lost control and fell off the e-bike, according to troopers. The e-bike came to rest in the left lane, while Blair ended up in the right lane.
Blair was struck by a truck while lying in the roadway, troopers said. The truck driver braked, and a second vehicle struck the truck from behind, striking Blair as well.
Blair was pronounced dead at the scene. Alcohol is suspected as a factor related to Blair, according to troopers. The wreck remains under investigation.
Our condolences go out to Blair’s family and loved ones.
Why Is a Person Lying in the Road So Hard to See at Night?
A person lying in a roadway at night is extremely difficult for drivers to see, especially on a road without dedicated street lighting. Headlights typically illuminate a limited stretch of pavement ahead, and a person on the ground can blend into the shadows of the road surface until a vehicle is very close.
When a lead vehicle brakes suddenly, following traffic doesn’t always have enough time or distance to react safely, particularly at night when depth perception and reaction time are already reduced. This kind of chain-reaction event can turn an already dangerous moment into something far more serious for everyone involved.
Riding an e-bike or bicycle after drinking carries serious risk, since alcohol affects balance and coordination in the same way it affects driving ability. A rider who loses control can end up in a live traffic lane with very little time for approaching vehicles to stop or steer around them. Reflective clothing and working lights can help, but they cannot fully compensate for reduced balance or slower reaction time.
