Wapakoneta man dies after dirt bike crash

WAPAKONETA, Ohio (WLIO) — A 37-year-old Wapakoneta man died after a dirt bike crash Friday morning.

The Wapakoneta Police Department says officers responded just before noon to the 800 block of North Blackhoof Street. According to the preliminary investigation, the rider lost control of the dirt bike and was ejected. Police say he was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. He was taken to Lima Memorial Hospital, where he later died. The crash remains under investigation.

July 3, 2026 press release from the Wapakoneta Police Department:

The Wapakoneta Police Department is investigating a fatal dirt bike crash that occurred in the 800 block of North Blackhoof Street.

At approximately 11:49 a.m, officers responded to the area for a report of a single-vehicle crash involving a dirt bike. The preliminary investigation indicates the operator lost control of the dirt bike and was ejected from the vehicle. The operator was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. 

The operator, a 37-year-old Wapakoneta man, was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. 

The crash remains under investigation by the Wapakoneta Police Department. No further information is being released at this time pending the completion of the investigation and notification of family members. 

The Wapakoneta Police Department extends its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.

Chief Calvin D. Schneider