CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — A tragic crash in Pickaway County claimed the life of a Lancaster man on Saturday afternoon after his motorcycle was struck from behind while waiting to turn off State Route 56 West, authorities said.
According to Sheriff Matthew O. Hafey, the Pickaway County Communications Center received a 911 call at 3:54 p.m. on October 4, 2025, reporting a serious collision in the area of State Route 56 West, between McClean Mill Road and Grice Road in Jackson Township. Deputies, firefighters, and EMS crews were immediately dispatched to the scene.
Investigators determined that a 2007 white Honda Shadow motorcycle, operated by 29-year-old Johnny R. McClarren Jr. of Lancaster, had stopped in the westbound lane while waiting to make a left turn into a private driveway at 6651 State Route 56 West. As McClarren waited for oncoming eastbound traffic to clear, his motorcycle was struck from behind by a 2019 white Chevrolet Cruze, driven by 38-year-old Tracy L. Brigner II of Circleville.
The impact of the collision proved fatal for McClarren, who was pronounced dead at the scene by personnel from WADES EMS. Brigner sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported by Circleville EMS to Ohio Health Berger Hospital for treatment. Both vehicles sustained significant damage, and portions of the highway were temporarily closed as authorities conducted their investigation and cleared the wreckage.
In a statement, Sheriff Hafey extended his gratitude to all emergency responders who assisted at the crash scene, including WADES EMS, South West Pickaway Fire Department, Circleville Fire and EMS, and Pickaway County Coroner Dr. Seth Yates. He expressed condolences to McClarren’s family and friends, describing the incident as a “heartbreaking reminder of how quickly tragedy can unfold on our roads.”
The Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the crash to determine all contributing factors. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the impact and whether speed, distraction, or other conditions played a role. Authorities urge drivers to remain attentive and maintain safe following distances, especially near intersections and driveways.