SOUTHWICK, Mass. — A motorcycle crash on College Highway claimed the life of a 36-year-old man on April 14 at approximately 7:45 p.m.
The Southwick Police Department closed a section of College Highway near 717 College Highway to investigate the incident, which involved a single motorcycle. Multiple agencies responded, including Southwick Fire Department, Westfield Police, Massachusetts State Police, and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.
Authorities confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, but specific details about the crash were not immediately available due to its severity. Requests for additional information were referred to the District Attorney’s Office, which stated it is not prosecuting the case and has no further comment.
This marks the first fatal motorcycle crash in western Massachusetts in 2023, part of a broader concern as Massachusetts has reported a total of six motorcycle fatalities statewide as of April 27.
In response to rising motorcycle-related incidents, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles has expanded its motorcycle safety training programs this spring to improve rider safety awareness. The initiative aims to address the increased risk during the spring season, considered particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.
For more information on the Massachusetts Rider Education Program, visit mass.gov.