Jefferson County, NY (April 18, 2026) – A motorcycle crash in the Town of Hounsfield left one person dead and another injured Saturday afternoon, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said a group of motorcyclists was traveling southbound on Jericho Road when two riders lost control and slid onto the right shoulder. During the incident, 20-year-old Patrick McGrew of Watertown collided with a pickup truck, while 33-year-old Cheyenne Middlemiss of Evans Mills struck a mailbox.
Emergency responders transported McGrew to Samaritan Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries. Middlemiss was taken to a nearby airport and airlifted to Upstate Medical Hospital in Syracuse. He is currently reported to be in stable condition.
Officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
We extend our condolences to the family of the deceased and wish the injured rider a full recovery.
Why Group Motorcycle Rides Can Increase Crash Risks
Group motorcycle rides can be enjoyable but also present unique safety challenges, especially when riders are traveling close together at higher speeds. Sudden changes in speed, road conditions, or spacing between riders can lead to chain-reaction incidents where multiple riders lose control at once.
When a motorcycle leaves the roadway, even briefly, the risk of striking fixed objects—such as vehicles, mailboxes, or roadside barriers—increases significantly. Unlike enclosed vehicles, motorcyclists have little protection, making these types of crashes more likely to result in serious or fatal injuries.
Maintaining safe distances, communicating effectively within the group, and adjusting speed based on road conditions are critical steps in reducing risk. Even experienced riders can encounter hazards, so staying alert and riding defensively is essential for overall safety.
