Londonderry, NH (August 27, 2025) – A dirt bike rider sustained serious injuries Tuesday evening following a crash on private property in Londonderry. The incident occurred around 6:40 p.m. when 52-year-old Michael Gilcreast of Hudson lost control of his dirt bike while traveling at a high rate of speed on a dirt access road.
According to officials with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, Gilcreast attempted to brake abruptly, which caused the bike to skid out from under him. He then collided with a rock wall, resulting in significant injuries. Fortunately, he was wearing both a helmet and protective eyewear at the time—gear that officials believe helped prevent life-threatening trauma.
Londonderry Fire Department responded to the scene along with Londonderry Police and conservation officers. Emergency crews provided critical first aid before transporting Gilcreast to a nearby landing zone at Londonderry West Soccer Fields. From there, he was airlifted via Boston MedFlight to Lahey Hospital in Burlington, MA for advanced treatment.
Authorities cited inattention and excessive speed as contributing factors in the crash. While no other individuals were involved, the event underscores the risks associated with recreational off-road riding, even in controlled or familiar areas.
Our thoughts are with Mr. Gilcreast as he continues his recovery.
OHRV Crashes and Safety in New Hampshire
Off-highway recreational vehicle (OHRV) crashes—particularly those involving dirt bikes—remain a concern across New Hampshire, where both public trails and private land are commonly used for recreational riding. Tuesday’s incident in Londonderry highlights how quickly these accidents can become serious, especially when speed and terrain combine in dangerous ways.
New Hampshire’s OHRV laws are designed to promote safety, requiring proper registration, helmet use, and safe operation at all times. Still, crashes on private property often fall outside heavily monitored zones, leaving riders more vulnerable to environmental hazards and limited emergency access. In this case, the presence of trained responders and aerial medical transport likely made a critical difference in the outcome.
Riders are encouraged to operate vehicles responsibly, always wear protective gear, and stay aware of their surroundings—even in areas they know well. Sudden changes in terrain, hidden obstacles, and reaction time can all contribute to high-impact injuries in off-road environments.
Injured riders and their families often face long recovery times, steep medical expenses, and uncertainty around liability—especially when incidents happen on private land. Access to appropriate support services is vital for navigating medical recovery and understanding what resources may be available to assist with both immediate and long-term needs.
If you or someone you love has been hurt in an OHRV crash, Local Accident Reports is here to help. We offer guidance, connect you with trusted recovery resources, and ensure you’re not facing this process alone. Reach out to Local Accident Reports today to take the first step toward informed recovery.
