A tragic motorcycle accident claimed the life of a 42-year-old man in Union Township, Washington County, on Sunday afternoon. The Washington County Coroner's Office has confirmed that Albert M. Swoager Jr., of New Eagle, was the individual who perished in the crash. According to a release detailed by WPXI, the accident occurred when Swoager lost control of his motorcycle while navigating a curve on State Route 88 near the intersection with Airport Road. The report noted that Swoager struck a guide rail and was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 5:20 p.m.
Driving a motorcycle, Swoager was traveling southbound on State Route 88 when the mishap took place. The local Monongahela police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident. It was also reported by another driver who witnessed the crash and contacted 911 at 3:58 p.m., as reported by WPXI.
A crucial detail emerged in both reports from Washington County officials, which hinted at a potential factor in the tragedy. The coroner's office noted that at the time of the accident, Swoager was not wearing a helmet.
An ongoing investigation is expected to provide more insight into what led to Swoager losing control of his motorcycle, with Monongahela police at the helm. Less than an hour-and-a-half later, after hitting the guide rail, Swoager was pronounced dead at the scene, according to a WTAE report.
