Ohio Man Dies In Motorcycle Accident After Fleeing From Law Enforcement

This incident happened on Tuesday, July 14.

Photo by Sgt. Wheeles.

(Switzerland Co., Ind.) - An Ohio man was killed in a motorcycle accident after fleeing from police in Switzerland County. 

On July 14, just before 9:00 p.m., the Switzerland County Sheriff’s Office received a call regarding a possible intoxicated individual leaving the Belterra Casino on a motorcycle, and traveling westbound on State Road 156 towards Vevay

Vevay Police Department and Switzerland County Sheriff’s Office officers located the 2000 Honda motorcycle and attempted a traffic stop after traffic violations were observed. 

Richard Alan Owens, 53, of Hillsboro, Ohio, fled from the officers heading westbound on State Road 56. Officers lost Owens and slowed their speed. 

After losing sight of the motorcycle, officer found the motorcycle along State Road 56 near Green Valley Road, near the Switzerland/Jefferson County line. 

Owens was found nearby after being thrown from the vehicle during the accident. Officers attempted first aid, but Owens was unable to be revived. 

The 53-year-old sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Jefferson County Coroner's Office. Toxicology results are pending.

Owens’ family has been notified.    

The Indiana State Police-Versailles Crash Reconstruction Team conducted the investigation which remains ongoing. 

The Indiana State Police was assisted by the Switzerland County Sheriff’s Office, Vevay Police Department, Switzerland County EMS, Jeff-Craig Fire Department, Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, and Switzerland County Coroner’s Office.