One Killed in Wayne County Motorcycle Crash

Joe Lyons • September 8, 2023

SUGAR CREEK TOWNSHIP – On Thursday, September 7, 2023 at 7:32 PM, the Wooster Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol was notified of a two-vehicle crash with serious injuries. The crash occurred in the westbound lanes of US Route 30 near Wenger Road in Sugar Creek Township, Wayne County.

The crash investigation revealed that a gray 2017 Dodge Durango was traveling westbound on US 30 in the left lane. A red 2000 Harley Davidson Road King was also traveling westbound on US 30 in the left lane. As the Dodge slowed to make a left turn, the motorcycle failed to maintain assured clear distance ahead and struck the Dodge in the left rear portion of the vehicle. After impact, the Dodge rotated and traveled into the grassy median.

The motorcycle driver was separated from the motorcycle and landed in the grassy median. The motorcycle itself overturned on its right side and came to final rest in the left lane of US 30.

The driver of the Dodge SUV, Sharla West, 42, of Dalton, Ohio did not sustain any injuries and was seat-belted at the time of the crash. The driver of the motorcycle, Jackson Fimple, 21, of East Canton, Ohio was transported from the scene by East Wayne Fire and EMS to Aultman Orrville Hospital. While enroute to the hospital, Mr. Fimple was pronounced deceased by EMS personnel. Mr. Fimple had a motorcycle endorsement and was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

At this time, the crash remains under investigation, but impairment is believed to be a contributing factor.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Dalton Police Department, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, East Wayne Fire and EMS, the Wayne County Coroner’s Office, and Paul Pratt’s Towing.