Fatal Crash Update: WHP Findings

Michael J Eckenrod (30) was southbound on WYO 50 approaching a slight left hand curve in the roadway when he failed to negotiate the curve.  His motorcycle went off the roadway on the right side whereupon it struck a dirt berm that ran along the roadway in that area. 

Eckenrod was totally ejected from the motorcycle and both he and the motorcycle came to rest on the side of the road.  The dirt berm that Eckenrod struck was the result of utility work that was being done along the roadway and was approximately 3 feet in height.  A Campbell County Sheriff’s Department Deputy was on a traffic stop a short distance away and heard the crash.  He then located the crash scene shortly after it happened. 

Excessive speed and alcohol use are being investigated as possible contributing factors in this crash.  Troopers are awaiting results of a blood test to determine if Eckenrod was intoxicated. 

FATALITIES*************************

NAME:            Michael J. Eckenrod                     AGE: 30        SEX: M

CITY & STATE: Gillette, WY

SUBJECT WAS DRIVER OF:  Vehicle #1 YEAR: 2001 MAKE: Suzuki MODEL: GSX motorcycle

DATE/TIME OF DEATH: 8/30/12 at 1:03 a.m. at Campbell County Memorial Hospital

SEAT BELT USE: -na- No helmet

LOCATION OF THE CRASH

Milepost #: 3.5                                                  Time of Crash: 0:17 a.m.

Highway: WYO 50                                            Date of Crash: 8/30/12

*Location Info: 1.6 miles south of Gillette in Campbell County