ERIE TWP. — A man is dead after driving a dirt bike into a moving train in Erie Township.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the crash was reported on Saturday, June 14th, at 9:27 p.m.
Preliminary investigation reveals 31-year-old Jacob A. Buchele, of Erie, was traveling westbound on Sterns Road operating an off-road red and blue 2022 Honda CRF-250 dirt bike.
While in motion, Buchele approached the Norfolk Southern railroad crossing, which was active with a northbound train in motion. The railroad crossing gates, red warning lights, and warning bells were activated on the east and west sides of the railroad tracks.
As Buchele approached the crossing, he traveled left of center, attempting to go around the east side railroad crossing gate. Not being able to stop in time, Buchele struck the right side of the engine and fell from his dirt bike.
The train’s emergency brakes were activated, and it came to a controlled stop. Buchele, who was wearing a helmet when the crash occurred, was pronounced dead at the scene. Police say alcohol is a factor in the crash.
The Norfolk Southern Railroad Police, Monroe Community Ambulance, and members of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Victim Services Unit and Chaplin Program assisted at the scene.
The crash remains under investigation by Lieutenant Brian Quinn and Deputy Sheriffs Cody Carena and Hunter Chirillo of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Services Division.
Anyone with information is asked to call 734-240-7548.