A 73-year-old man from Rootstown, James H. Goodmote Jr., died Saturday afternoon following a crash involving a motorcycle and a sedan in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, leaving family, friends and loved ones mourning a tragic loss.
According to the information provided by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash happened at approximately 12:30 p.m. on State Route 212 in Warren Township. Goodmote was traveling eastbound on a motorcycle when a 32-year-old man from Dover, who was driving a sedan westbound on the same roadway, reportedly crossed the center line and struck the motorcycle.
The impact sent Goodmote’s motorcycle off the right side of the roadway, where it struck a guardrail. Goodmote was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said he was not wearing safety equipment at the time of the crash.
The sedan also left the roadway, reportedly spinning off the left side before striking a guardrail. The 32-year-old driver sustained serious injuries and was transported to Aultman Hospital for treatment. He was reportedly not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation. According to officials, impairment is believed to have been a factor, although the investigation remains ongoing and additional findings may be released as authorities continue reviewing the incident.
State Route 212 was closed for approximately three and a half hours while emergency crews responded to the scene, investigators examined the crash and the vehicles were removed from the roadway.
Several agencies assisted with the response, including the Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Department, Fairfield Township Fire Department, Sherrodsville Fire Department, Smith Ambulance, the Ohio Department of Transportation, Keith’s Towing and the Tuscarawas County Coroner’s Office.
For Goodmote’s family and friends, the details of the crash cannot capture the full weight of the loss. His death at 73 has left loved ones facing the difficult reality of saying goodbye to someone whose life was part of their family and community.
Sudden roadway deaths can leave families with grief and unanswered questions. Those who knew James will now remember him through the experiences they shared, the conversations they had and the memories created throughout his life.
While the investigation will focus on determining exactly what happened on State Route 212, Goodmote’s loved ones will focus on honoring the life he lived rather than only the circumstances of his final moments.
Information about funeral or memorial arrangements was not included in the material provided. Further details may be released by his family as arrangements are finalized.
James H. Goodmote Jr. will be remembered by his family, friends and members of the Rootstown community following a tragic crash that ended his life unexpectedly.
May James H. Goodmote Jr. rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength and comfort as they mourn his passing.
