Deer Causes Fatal Accident in Town of Walton
The Delaware County Sheriff's Office is reporting a tragic accident in the Town of Walton this past Saturday evening that involved a deer, two motorcycles and a vehicle, that ended with one fatality.
The accident began with a deer that suddenly entered State Highway 206 near the intersection of Davis Road. The deer struck a motorcycle traveling north on that road and ridden by 64-year-old Bruce H. Gerken, and his wife, 58-year-old Deborah L. Gerken, of Bainbridge. Both were ejected from the motorcycle. That motorcycle ended up striking a vehicle in the opposite lane traveling south, driven by 56-year-old Debra A. Higley of Trout Creek.
Another motorcyclist was traveling behind the couple on the first motorcycle: 74-year-old Richard H. King from Bainbridge who subsequently lost control of his motorcycle while attempting to avoid the Gerken’ collision. His motorcycle struck guide wires, then overturned fatally injuring King.
The couple on the first motorcycle were taken to UHS Wilson Hospital. The woman driving the vehicle, Debra Higley and her passenger, 62 year-old Luther H. Higley, were not injured, although their vehicle was damaged.
This accident remains under investigation.