Randall J. Straw Obituary, Death News – A tragic motorcycle crash in Greene County claimed the life of a Cedarville man early Thursday morning. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, troopers were called to the scene of the accident at approximately 1:22 a.m. The crash took place on Barber Road near Riva Trace Drive in Cedarville Township.
Authorities identified the victim as 68-year-old Randall J. Straw, a longtime resident of Cedarville. Straw had been operating a 2013 Harley Davidson Tri-Glide Ultra Classic motorcycle when the accident occurred. Investigators said he was attempting to make a right-hand turn onto Riva Trace Drive when he lost control. The motorcycle overturned and veered off the left side of the road, leading to the deadly crash.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Straw was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers confirmed that he had not been wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, a factor that may have contributed to the severity of his injuries. The Ohio State Highway Patrol emphasized the importance of helmet use, noting that helmets significantly increase the chances of surviving motorcycle crashes by reducing head injuries.
Several agencies assisted in the response to the accident. Cedarville police, the Cedarville Township Fire Department, the Greene County Sheriff’s Office, and the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office were all on-site to provide support. Their combined efforts ensured the scene was secured and that a thorough investigation could begin.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Xenia Post is leading the investigation into the incident. While the preliminary findings point to Straw losing control while turning, investigators are still working to determine whether additional factors, such as road conditions, speed, or mechanical issues with the motorcycle, may have played a role. The final conclusions will come once the investigation is completed.
The accident has deeply affected the Cedarville community, where Straw was well known. News of his passing has left family, friends, and neighbors grieving the sudden loss. Motorcycle crashes often have devastating consequences, especially when riders are not wearing helmets, and this tragedy has once again underscored the risks associated with riding.
Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to stress the importance of motorcycle safety, reminding riders to wear protective gear, remain alert, and take precautions on the road—especially during late-night or early-morning hours when visibility is lower and road conditions may be more hazardous.
For now, authorities are focusing on gathering every detail that led up to the crash to provide a clearer picture of what happened. As the investigation continues, the Cedarville community is left mourning the loss of a resident whose life was cut short in the early hours of the morning.
Randall J. Straw’s passing serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly accidents can turn fatal and highlights the ongoing need for safety awareness among all motorists, particularly motorcyclists who face greater risks on the road.
