GH man dies in motorcycle-deer crash

Ohio State Highway Patrol information

GROVER HILL — The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Van Wert Post is investigating a fatal crash that occurred at approximately 3:42 this morning on Wetzel Road, near Hoaglin Center Road, in Van Wert County.

According to investigating troopers, a 2008 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle driven by Jeffrey C. Bidlack, 53, of Grover Hill, was traveling west on Wetzel Road and approaching Hoaglin Center Road when Bidlack struck a deer that was crossing the roadway.

Bidlack was thrown from his motorcycle and sustained multiple injuries. Bidlack was life-flighted by Samaritan Medical Transport to Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Bidlack’s motorcycle sustained disabling damage and was towed from the scene. Bidlack was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

Wetzel Road was closed between Hoaglin Center and Slane roads for approximately two hours before the scene could be cleared.

The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol was also assisted on scene by Grover Hill Fire and EMS, Van Wert County EMS, Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office, and Superior Collison.

The crash remains under investigation.  Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the crash.