ONTARIO, N.Y. — A quiet Friday night in the small town of Ontario turned to tragedy on August 22, 2025, when a vibrant young life was cut short in a devastating motorcycle accident. The New York State Police have identified the victim as 19-year-old Jack Roland Axx of Webster, a young man whose passion for life and love for adventure left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
The fatal collision occurred around 9:50 p.m. on Lake Road, near 181 Lake Road in Wayne County. Jack, riding a 2006 Yamaha motorcycle westbound, was navigating the familiar stretch when disaster struck. An eastbound 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 62-year-old William T. Ritchie of Ontario, was turning left into a private driveway. In a heartbreaking moment, Jack’s motorcycle collided with the front passenger side of the truck. The impact was catastrophic, and Jack was pronounced dead at the scene.
William Ritchie and his passenger, 63-year-old Steven R. Crane, also of Ontario, escaped the crash unharmed, a stark contrast to the irreversible loss suffered by Jack’s family and friends. The New York State Police, supported by their Collision Reconstruction Unit and Bureau of Criminal Investigation, are diligently piecing together the circumstances of the crash. While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities have yet to release details on contributing factors, leaving the community searching for answers amid their grief.
Jack Roland Axx, born on May 17, 2006, in Rochester, was more than just a name in the news. Described as kind, smart, and possessing a heart of gold, Jack lived life with an infectious enthusiasm. A recent hire at Garber Subaru as a mechanic, he was thrilled about the opportunity and cherished the camaraderie with his coworkers. His love for the open road was matched by his passion for fishing, four-wheeling, and dirt biking—pursuits that reflected his adventurous spirit. Above all, Jack held his friends and family close, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and connection.
Jack is survived by his beloved mother, Christine M. Axx, his father, Michael J. Angel, his sisters Alyssandra and Adrianna, and his brother Gavin. He also leaves behind his grandparents, Suzanne and Tom Axx, and Scott and Joyce Beiswenger, along with aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews who will forever cherish his memory. Jack was predeceased by his father, Ryan Axx, a loss that had already touched his young life.
The Webster community has rallied to honor Jack’s memory. Calling hours are scheduled for Friday, August 29, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Falvo Funeral Home, located at 1295 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Webster, NY. A Celebration of Life will follow on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at White Haven Memorial Park’s All Seasons Chapel, 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford, NY. In keeping with Jack’s laid-back spirit, his family has requested that attendees ditch formal attire and wear their favorite hoodies, a fitting tribute to a young man who lived authentically.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Verona Animal Shelter, reflecting Jack’s compassionate nature. As the investigation continues and the community mourns, Jack Axx’s memory endures as a reminder of a life filled with promise, taken too soon on a quiet road in Ontario.