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Tompkins motorcyclist dies after colliding with deer

On August 2, 2023, the New York State Police are investigating a fatal motorcycle accident on State Route 417 in the town of Erwin.


The accident occurred around 10:00 a.m. when 70-year-old Joseph M. Hollander of Newfield was traveling westbound near the intersection of Beartown Road.

A group of deer suddenly entered the roadway, and despite Hollander’s attempts at evasive action, he was unable to avoid colliding with one of the animals.

Hollander’s motorcycle struck the deer, causing him to be ejected from the bike. He was subsequently airlifted to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The accident underscores the potential dangers faced by motorcyclists, especially when encountering unexpected obstacles such as wildlife on the road.