Tragic Midnight Collision Claims Life of Young Motorcyclist on I-670 in Columbus

A Fatal Night on the Highway

A late-night motorcycle crash on the westbound lanes of I-670 turned fatal for a 31-year-old rider, sending shockwaves through Columbus’ East Side community. The incident unfolded near the Fifth Avenue exit shortly after 11 p.m. on June 21, leaving one man dead and another seriously injured.

According to authorities, the tragic sequence began when one of three motorcyclists riding together reportedly sideswiped a Honda Accord. The impact triggered a chain reaction, ejecting two riders from their motorcycles—one of them identified as Keenen McShan Smith, who was riding a 2005 Kawasaki Ninja.

Smith was thrown onto the roadway and was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. The second motorcyclist who was ejected sustained serious injuries and was rushed to Grant Medical Center for treatment. Officials say this individual is expected to survive.

The Columbus Police Department's Accident Investigation Unit is actively examining the circumstances that led to this devastating crash. Investigators are working to piece together what happened in the moments before the collision. They are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information related to it to come forward.

Witnesses or anyone with relevant details can contact the Columbus Division of Police or share information anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

The loss of Keenen McShan Smith serves as a somber reminder of the risks riders face on the road. As investigations continue, friends, family, and fellow riders mourn the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a young life cut short.

Motorcycle safety remains a critical concern, particularly on high-speed roadways such as I-670. Officials continue to stress the importance of alert driving, maintaining safe distances, and wearing appropriate protective gear to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.