Motorcyclist Killed in Crash North of Ridgedale
RIDGEDALE, MO — A 19-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a collision on Friday, June 13, at approximately 2:16 p.m. near Ridgedale.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Erich Craig of Omaha, AR, was riding a 2007 Suzuki motorcycle about two miles north of Ridgedale when he struck a slowing 2020 Jeep Cherokee. The driver of the Cherokee was stopping for another vehicle at the time of the accident.
Investigators report that after the initial impact, Craig lost control of the motorcycle, which overturned into the path of a 2024 Mazda CX30. The Mazda subsequently struck Craig.
A paramedic from the Taney County Ambulance District pronounced Craig dead at the scene. His body was later transported to Cremations of the Ozarks by the Taney County Coroner’s Office.
The drivers of the Jeep and Mazda sustained minor to moderate injuries.
Authorities confirmed this incident marks the 51st traffic-related death in the jurisdiction for the year 2025. An investigation into the crash is ongoing.