WATERFORD, Conn. — Authorities are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred late Saturday night along Route 32 near Smith Cove.
According to the Waterford Police Department, the crash happened around 11:20 p.m. when a Harley-Davidson motorcycle traveling southbound struck a guardrail just before reaching Richards Grove Road.
The rider, identified as 55-year-old Thomas Peabody of Westerly, Rhode Island, was thrown from the motorcycle and landed in a wooded area next to the highway. Emergency crews responded quickly, but despite life-saving efforts, Peabody was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said no other vehicles were involved in the accident. The Waterford Police Accident Reconstruction Team is investigating to determine what caused the motorcycle to leave the roadway. Factors such as speed, lighting, and road conditions are being reviewed.
A section of Route 32 was temporarily closed while investigators documented evidence and cleared the area. The road has since reopened.
Officials are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact the Waterford Police Department at 860-442-9451.
This remains an active investigation.