Tragic Motorcycle Crash Claims Life of 18-Year-Old in Ulster County

A tragic motorcycle crash in Ulster County has claimed the life of a recent Ellenville High School graduate, leaving the community heartbroken.

According to New York State Police, the fatal crash happened around 7:19 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, along State Route 52 in the Town of Wawarsing, NY.

Wawarsing

Fatal Motorcycle Accident in Ulster County, NY

Police said that a preliminary investigation revealed that 18-year-old Ryan M. Conklin of Spring Glen was riding a 2024 Yamaha motorcycle westbound on Route 52 when he was reportedly traveling at an unsafe speed.

For reasons that remain under investigation, Ryan lost control of the motorcycle, which slid across the roadway into the eastbound lane before colliding with a 2021 Toyota. Police say the motorcycle then became lodged underneath the vehicle.

Ryan was ejected from the motorcycle and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Tragic Accident in Wawarsing, NY

The driver of the Toyota, identified as 57-year-old Kimberly A. Gage of Pine Bush, tried to avoid the motorcycle by steering to the right. Her vehicle crossed over the roadway hazard markings before hitting a rock barrier.

Gage, along with two passengers—a 77-year-old woman and a 79-year-old man from Milford, Pennsylvania- were taken to Ellenville Regional Hospital with minor injuries.

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News of Ryan's death has sent shockwaves through the Ellenville community, where he had recently graduated from Ellenville High School. Friends, classmates and loved ones have begun sharing heartfelt tributes on social media, remembering the 18-year-old and the bright future that was ahead of him.

New York State Police say the investigation remains active. Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that could help investigators is asked to contact the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Ellenville at (845) 344-5300 and reference case number NY2600825120.

Our thoughts are with Ryan's family, friends, classmates, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.