Walnut Creek Twp, OH (August 6, 2025) – A 27-year-old woman riding an electric bicycle was tragically killed in a collision early Tuesday morning on State Route 39, according to the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office. The crash occurred just east of County Road 135 around 5:45 a.m., as the victim attempted to turn into a local business driveway.
The rider, identified as Maria Kempf of Fresno, OH, was reportedly making a left-hand turn into the entrance of Walnut Creek Cheese when she was struck by a westbound GMC Denali. Despite wearing a reflective vest and having a flashing light on her e-bike, Kempf was pronounced dead at the scene by the Holmes County Coroner.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, which occurred in low-light early morning conditions. No charges have been announced at this time.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Maria Kempf during this incredibly difficult time.
E-Bike Safety and Motor Vehicle Collisions in Ohio
The death of Maria Kempf on SR 39 brings renewed attention to the growing safety concerns surrounding e-bikes on rural and semi-rural roadways in Ohio. E-bikes are increasingly used for commuting, fitness, and transportation in both urban and country settings, but they often share roadways with much larger, faster-moving vehicles—creating a dangerous imbalance.
Despite Kempf’s use of reflective gear and active lighting—measures that go above and beyond minimum safety recommendations—this fatal crash underscores that visibility is only one part of the safety equation. Driver awareness, vehicle speed, and road design also play critical roles in accident prevention.
The location of the crash—near a business driveway in a dimly lit rural area—raises further questions about signage, line of sight, and the timing of turns across traffic. In many parts of Ohio, e-bike riders do not have the benefit of bike lanes or shoulder space, forcing them to ride in close proximity to vehicles like SUVs and trucks that may not anticipate or yield properly.
As communities across the state evaluate their infrastructure to accommodate emerging mobility trends, tragic incidents like this one should inform efforts to improve signage, enforce safe passing laws, and increase driver education regarding the presence of e-bikes and other vulnerable road users.
For families coping with the sudden loss of a loved one in a crash, the journey through grief is often complicated by legal questions, insurance issues, and a need for clarity about what happened.
If your family has experienced a loss due to an e-bike or roadway collision, know that there are compassionate resources available to help you take the next steps.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to supporting families impacted by fatal crashes. We provide timely updates, recovery resources, and assistance in understanding your rights after tragedy strikes. If you’ve lost a loved one in a traffic collision, contact us today to learn how we can support your family through this difficult time.
