A weekend ride turned tragic on I-69 in rural Steuben County when a motorcycle veered off the highway, claiming one life and leaving another person badly hurt.
A Sudden Swerve Into the Median
It was just after 4:30 p.m. Saturday when Steuben County Sheriff’s deputies and EMS crews were called to a stretch of southbound I-69 near mile marker 355.
Witnesses told deputies they saw the motorcycle drift off the east side of the road, cut through the grass median, and slam into a cable barrier post. There was no time to react — both the driver and passenger were thrown from the bike on impact.
One line here: Crashes like this can unfold in seconds yet change lives forever.
Driver Identified, Passenger Still Critical
The driver, 57-year-old Michael L. Wright of Auburn, was taken to a regional hospital but didn’t survive his injuries. His name was confirmed by the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office late Sunday night.
The passenger, whose name hasn’t been released, remains in serious condition. Doctors are monitoring for head trauma and internal injuries — common, devastating risks in motorcycle wrecks. Family members were reportedly at the hospital late into the night.
What Happened On I-69?
The preliminary investigation points to the bike losing control just south of the Green Lake bridge. No other vehicles were involved.
Authorities say there’s no sign alcohol played any role — a point that’s little comfort to loved ones left behind. Weather conditions were clear at the time.
One neighbor who drove past the scene described the aftermath: “It looked awful. You see a bike in the median and you just know it’s bad news.”
Motorcycles: The Risks That Never Go Away
It’s a sobering reminder that even experienced riders are exposed when things go wrong. There’s no steel frame or airbags — just helmet, leather, and the hope that everyone else stays in their lane.
According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, Indiana saw 2,848 motorcycle crashes in 2023. Nearly 150 riders didn’t make it home.
Here’s a look at state crash stats:
| Year | Total Motorcycle Crashes | Fatalities |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2,512 | 138 |
| 2021 | 2,700 | 143 |
| 2022 | 2,825 | 149 |
| 2023 | 2,848 | 147 |
One sentence here: Every crash is a family turned upside down.
No Alcohol, No Easy Answers
Deputies confirmed there was no sign of drinking or drugs — a common factor in so many wrecks. So what happened? Investigators are examining the bike for any mechanical problems that might have caused the sudden drift off the road.
A seasoned rider familiar with that stretch of I-69 said crosswinds near the bridge can catch you off guard. “It doesn’t take much — one gust, one distraction, and you’re in the median,” he said.
Community Feels The Loss
Michael Wright’s friends in Auburn describe him as a longtime rider who knew the roads well. A neighbor said, “He’d been on two wheels since before I met him. He loved it — the freedom, you know? It’s what he did to clear his head.”
It’s the kind of tragedy that shakes even veteran bikers. One local motorcycle club posted condolences online, reminding members to watch their speed and check their gear.
No Road Is Completely Safe
One line here: Interstate or country lane, motorcycles carry risks that can’t be wished away.
Unlike car crashes, where people sometimes walk away with just bruises, a high-speed motorcycle wreck rarely leaves survivors unscathed. Helmets do save lives — the CDC says they reduce head injury risk by 69% — but they’re not invincible.
A firefighter who responded said, “We wish people understood. One second of losing focus and there’s nothing between you and the pavement.”
A Reminder For Drivers Too
Motorcyclists make up just 3% of registered vehicles in Indiana but account for about 13% of traffic fatalities statewide. That stat rattles around every spring when the weather warms up and more bikes hit the road.
A local safety advocate said, “Look twice. If you’re changing lanes on the interstate, glance again. That extra two seconds can save someone’s life.”
Passenger’s Family Holds On To Hope
As for the passenger, family members have asked for privacy. Deputies say they’ll release a name once the person is stable.
A close friend told local reporters they’re staying hopeful. “It’s going to be a long road. But we’re praying for a miracle.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office will continue piecing together exactly what led up to the wreck. Crash reconstruction experts plan to review skid marks, bike damage, and any dash cam video they can find.
They don’t expect charges — just a final report to bring some answers to a day that ended so suddenly.
