Jerry W. May Jr. Obituary, Death – Over the weekend, authorities in Monroe County confirmed the identity of a motorcyclist who tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle crash in Brighton. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office announced on Monday that the victim was 28-year-old Jerry W. May Jr., a Rochester resident.
The fatal incident happened on Saturday, September 20, along the northbound lanes of Interstate 590, close to the intersection with Monroe Avenue. According to the Sheriff’s Office, May was riding his motorcycle north when he struck a guide rail situated near the roadway. The collision caused severe injuries that ultimately claimed his life.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene quickly after receiving calls about the crash. Despite efforts to provide aid, authorities reported that May did not survive the impact. No other vehicles were involved in the incident, and there were no additional injuries reported.
The Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to May’s loved ones in a public statement following the announcement of his death. David Marcucci, a spokesperson for the office, emphasized the difficult nature of such tragedies and said, “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time for them.”
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing as deputies continue to review details that could help determine the circumstances leading up to the collision. While preliminary findings confirm that May’s motorcycle veered into the guide rail, authorities have not yet disclosed what factors—such as speed, weather, or possible mechanical issues—may have contributed to the incident.
Fatal motorcycle accidents, though often less common than passenger vehicle collisions, carry a significantly higher risk of severe outcomes due to the limited protection riders have compared to car occupants. Law enforcement officials across the region frequently emphasize the importance of motorcycle safety, including the use of helmets, protective gear, and defensive driving practices to reduce risks on the road.
The stretch of I-590 near Monroe Avenue, where this crash occurred, is a busy corridor that experiences heavy daily traffic. While guide rails are designed to prevent vehicles from veering off the roadway or into oncoming lanes, striking them at high speeds can still result in devastating consequences, particularly for motorcyclists.
As the investigation continues, deputies are expected to reconstruct the sequence of events to determine whether excessive speed, road conditions, or other contributing factors played a role. No immediate updates regarding toxicology tests or mechanical inspections of the motorcycle have been released.
The death of Jerry May Jr. adds to the ongoing concern about roadway fatalities in Monroe County. Traffic safety advocates continue to push for enhanced awareness programs that highlight both motorcycle safety and the importance of cautious driving by all motorists sharing the road.
For May’s family and friends, the tragedy has brought sudden grief. Though officials have not shared details about his personal background, the Sheriff’s Office’s message of sympathy reflects the broader community’s acknowledgment of the painful loss experienced by those close to him.
In keeping with standard procedures, deputies are encouraging any witnesses who may have been traveling along I-590 at the time of the crash to reach out if they observed the motorcycle prior to the collision. Such information could provide valuable insight into what led to the accident.
As the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office continues its work, they stress that road safety remains a shared responsibility. This tragic case serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerability motorcyclists face and the importance of vigilance for every driver on the road.
Jerry W. May Jr.’s life was cut short on a busy Rochester highway, and while investigators search for answers, the community reflects on the profound impact of the loss. His passing underscores the urgent need for both riders and drivers alike to exercise caution and awareness, helping prevent future tragedies of this nature.
