Fredericksburg Man Dies After E-Bike Collision on Harrison Road
In Franklin Township, Ohio (Wayne County), at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5, a tragic collision claimed the life of Mervin D. Troyer, aged 61, of Fredericksburg.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Wooster Post, Mr. Troyer was riding a Magnum Nomad electric bicycle (E-bike) eastbound on Harrison Road, about two miles east of Nonpariel Road, when he was struck from behind by a white 2012 Ford van. The crash occurred on a rural section of roadway in Franklin Township, an area often used by local residents for light travel and farming access.
Investigators report that the van was also traveling eastbound when it collided with the rear of the E-bike. The impact caused Mr. Troyer to be ejected from his bike, which was forced off the right side of the road. He came to rest in the roadway, where emergency personnel pronounced him deceased at the scene.
Mr. Troyer was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Authorities have emphasized that this detail, while not necessarily a cause of the incident, may have contributed to the severity of his injuries. The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the collision, focusing on possible contributing factors such as vehicle speed, lighting conditions, visibility, and the mechanical status of both the van and the E-bike.
At this stage of the investigation, no charges or citations have been issued, and the driver of the Ford van has not yet been identified publicly. Officials confirmed that alcohol and drugs are not currently suspected as contributing factors, but toxicology results and accident-reconstruction reports are still pending.
Emergency responders from Fredericksburg Fire and EMS arrived within minutes of the report, securing the area and diverting traffic from the scene. Harrison Road remained closed for several hours as investigators documented evidence, took measurements, and removed debris from the roadway.
Local residents expressed deep sorrow and concern over the fatal incident. Mervin D. Troyer was known in the Fredericksburg community as a hardworking, kind, and friendly man. Neighbors described him as someone who enjoyed outdoor activities and frequently used his E-bike for short trips around the township. His sudden passing has left a significant void among family, friends, and the broader community.
The tragedy has reignited conversations around road safety and E-bike regulations in rural areas. Officials and local advocates are encouraging increased awareness among both drivers and cyclists, emphasizing the importance of protective gear, reflective clothing, and mutual caution on narrow country roads.
In a brief statement, representatives from the Ohio State Highway Patrol urged all road users to stay alert and share the roadway responsibly:
“We extend our condolences to the family of Mr. Troyer. Our troopers are committed to determining the circumstances that led to this tragic event and to improving roadway safety for all travelers.”
Mr. Troyer’s family is expected to announce funeral and memorial arrangements in the coming days. The community of Fredericksburg is rallying around them, offering support and prayers as they grieve the loss of a beloved resident.
Anyone with information or who may have witnessed the collision is asked to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol – Wooster Post to assist with the ongoing investigation.
This tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerability of cyclists and E-bike riders, particularly on rural Ohio roads where higher-speed traffic and limited shoulders can increase risks. The Franklin Township community now mourns a life taken too soon — that of Mervin D. Troyer, a respected and well-loved member of their town.
