UPDATE: 4/13/2026 — A motorcycle crash on I-68 in Morgantown left one man dead on Sunday afternoon.
According to the West Virginia State Police, the incident occurred around 4:20 p.m. on the westbound side near mile marker 13.
Authorities identified the victim as James Smith III, 24, from Morgantown. He reportedly lost control of his motorcycle and was thrown from the vehicle, pronounced dead at the scene.
Smith was a senior at West Virginia University, as confirmed by university officials.
The West Virginia State Police are conducting an ongoing investigation. Smith’s family has been notified, and no further details are available at this time.
ORIGINAL: MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) — I-68 westbound and the fast lane of eastbound remain closed due to the crash.
Initial reports indicate the accident occurred on I-68 at mile marker 13, between Coopers Rock and Cheat Lake, as stated by the Monongalia County Emergency Management Agency.
The Monongalia County 911 communication center confirmed that the West Virginia State Police are managing the scene, with assistance from the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, EMS, and local fire departments.
Authorities have asked the public to avoid the area as the situation develops. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.
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