ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A 24-year-old man, identified as Bryan Starkweather of Greece, tragically lost his life on Saturday, August 3, 2025, following a high-speed motorcycle crash during a police pursuit in Irondequoit. Authorities say the chase began when Starkweather failed to stop for an officer and ultimately ended in a fatal collision at Durand Eastman Park.

 High-Speed Incident Begins on Titus Avenue

According to a press release from the Irondequoit Police Department, the incident began shortly before 12:15 p.m. when an officer observed a motorcyclist—later identified as Starkweather—traveling at a high rate of speed along Titus Avenue.

The officer initiated a traffic stop, but Starkweather reportedly refused to comply. The motorcyclist continued heading north on Culver Road, prompting a brief pursuit. Police stated the officer lost sight of the motorcycle near Sweet Fern Road and Culver Road, at which point a search of the surrounding area was launched.

 Crash on Lakeshore Boulevard

Moments later, officers discovered that Starkweather had crashed on Lakeshore Boulevard, in the vicinity of Durand Eastman Park. Authorities said that Starkweather’s motorcycle collided with a Nissan SUV as the vehicle was pulling into a parking space.

Emergency personnel were immediately called to the scene. First responders administered CPR and first aid, but tragically, Bryan Starkweather was pronounced dead on site. No other serious injuries were reported.

 State Attorney General’s Office Takes Over Investigation

In accordance with New York State law, the incident is being reviewed by the New York State Attorney General’s Office, which oversees investigations involving police encounters that result in civilian deaths.

As of Friday morning, officials have not confirmed whether the police officer’s conduct will be under scrutiny or if departmental policies were followed during the attempted stop and pursuit. The Irondequoit Police Department has pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.

 Remembering Bryan Starkweather

Friends and community members are mourning the loss of Bryan Starkweather, who has been described on social media as a “genuine, kind-hearted young man who loved motorcycles and lived life fast but full of heart.”

A candlelight vigil is being planned by family and friends at Durand Eastman Park later this week to honor Bryan’s life and provide support to his grieving loved ones.

“He was someone you could always count on,” one friend wrote online. “He had a wild spirit, but he was loyal and caring. This is a terrible loss.”

 Call for Transparency and Road Safety Reform

The incident has reignited conversations about the risks associated with high-speed police pursuits, especially in cases involving minor traffic violations or speeding. Advocates are calling for updated pursuit policies and increased investments in traffic camera systems to reduce the risk of fatal outcomes.

A local traffic safety advocate commented, “We’re not blaming officers for doing their job, but we also must ask: is every chase worth a life? We owe it to Bryan and others like him to take a closer look at our procedures.”

Summary:

• Victim: Bryan Starkweather, 24, of Greece, NY
• Date/Time: Thursday, August 1, 2025, around 12:15 p.m.
• Location: Lakeshore Boulevard near Durand Eastman Park
• Incident: Motorcycle crash following a police pursuit
• Status: Investigation underway by New York State Attorney General’s Office

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