Fatal Motorcycle Crash Shuts Down Buckley Road in Onondaga County
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — June 14, 2025
A tragic motorcycle crash early Saturday morning has claimed the life of one individual, the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed. The incident occurred around 5:45 a.m. on Buckley Road near the I-81 off-ramp, between Russell and Ridge Avenues—prompting a major emergency response and ongoing road closures in the area.
According to authorities, emergency dispatchers received reports of a serious crash involving a motorcyclist shortly before sunrise. Upon arriving at the scene, first responders found the motorcyclist down and severely injured. Despite lifesaving efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
At the time of the crash, the motorcyclist was reportedly traveling northbound on Buckley Road, a heavily traveled corridor for commuters coming off Interstate 81. Details surrounding the circumstances of the crash remain unclear, and investigators have not yet confirmed whether other vehicles were involved.
“Currently we are investigating. It’s too early to say it was only a single vehicle involved, but as of right now, investigators are on scene and will make that determination,” said Public Information Officer Tom Newton with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office during a morning press briefing.
As a result of the incident, Buckley Road has been closed in both directions from Russell Avenue to Ridge Avenue. Law enforcement advises drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes, as the closure is expected to remain in effect for several hours while the scene is processed.
Crash reconstruction specialists are working to determine the cause of the accident. Officials say they will review nearby traffic cameras, check for skid marks or road hazards, and speak with any potential witnesses in the area. They are also looking into weather and lighting conditions at the time of the crash, which occurred during the early morning hours when visibility can be limited.
The crash has cast a somber mood over the local community and serves as a grim reminder of the dangers motorcyclists face on the road. With summer approaching and more motorcycles taking to the streets, safety advocates urge both motorcyclists and drivers alike to exercise heightened caution.
Local residents and commuters expressed their sorrow and concern, noting that the stretch of Buckley Road near the I-81 ramps is often busy and can be dangerous. “It’s just heartbreaking to wake up and see that someone lost their life right here,” said a nearby resident. “I hope they get to the bottom of what happened.”
The Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information relevant to the investigation to contact their tip line.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
