A tragic accident on a quiet Saturday evening has left the Hancock County community in mourning, after a devastating crash involving a motorcycle and an SUV claimed the life of one man and critically injured a woman. The collision, which occurred along a stretch of road frequently traveled by local residents, drew an immediate response from law enforcement, fire personnel, and medical teams, who worked diligently to assess the scene and aid those involved.
The crash was reported just after 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025. Upon arrival, first responders found a severely damaged motorcycle and a visibly impacted SUV. The driver of the motorcycle, identified as 53-year-old Eric Edwards of Greenfield, was pronounced dead at the scene due to the extensive injuries he sustained during the collision. Authorities confirmed that Mr. Edwards had been wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, though the impact proved too severe to survive.
A female passenger on the motorcycle, whose name has not been released pending notification of family, was critically injured. Emergency medical services transported her by air to a nearby trauma center, where she remains in critical condition as of Sunday morning. Officials stated that she sustained multiple traumatic injuries and underwent emergency surgery overnight.
The driver of the SUV, an adult female whose identity has also not been disclosed, was treated at the scene for minor injuries and later transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. According to early statements from investigators, the SUV was traveling northbound when it collided with the motorcycle, which was heading southbound. The exact circumstances leading up to the crash remain under investigation, and law enforcement has not yet determined whether speed, impairment, or any form of driver distraction played a role.
The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office has launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash, with the assistance of the county’s accident reconstruction team. Roadway closures were in place for several hours on Saturday night as investigators documented the scene and gathered evidence.
Sheriff Brad Burkhart issued a statement late Saturday evening expressing condolences to the family of Mr. Edwards and reaffirming the department’s commitment to uncovering the facts surrounding the incident.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Mr. Eric Edwards,” Sheriff Burkhart said. “This is a tragic loss for our community, and we are doing everything in our power to understand how this occurred. We ask for patience as we complete a thorough and respectful investigation.”
Eric Edwards was a longtime Greenfield resident, known by many for his friendly demeanor and passion for motorcycles. Neighbors and friends described him as a kind-hearted man who enjoyed the open road and spending time with his family. The sudden news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the small city of Greenfield, where community members have begun organizing a candlelight vigil in his memory.
This crash marks one of the most severe motorcycle-related accidents in Hancock County so far this year, serving as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of motorcyclists on local roads. Authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant, particularly as warmer weather brings more riders onto Indiana highways.
The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging any witnesses to come forward with information or dashcam footage that may assist in the ongoing investigation. Updates will be provided as new details emerge, and the community continues to rally around those affected by this heartbreaking incident.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office at (317) 477-1147.