PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — A devastating crash in downtown Plattsburgh has claimed the life of 21-year-old Ronnie Gamble III, leaving family, friends, and the wider community in mourning.
The Crash
According to the Plattsburgh Police Department, the collision occurred around 8:20 p.m. on Friday, September 19, at the intersection of Cornelia and Broad streets.
Investigators said Gamble, of Peru, was traveling west on his 2006 Honda motorcycle when he struck the side of a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado that was driving north through the intersection.
Emergency crews rushed Gamble to UVM Health Network CVPH, where, despite all efforts, he was pronounced dead. The 27-year-old pickup driver was not injured and cooperated with authorities before being released.
The area remained closed for several hours while police, assisted by the New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, documented the scene. The investigation is ongoing.
A Community in Mourning
The sudden loss of such a young life has sent shockwaves through Plattsburgh and nearby Peru. Friends and loved ones described Ronnie as kind, loyal, and full of energy, someone whose presence lit up every room.
Social media has filled with tributes to the 21-year-old, with friends remembering him as both a trusted companion and a devoted son. Many shared heartfelt words, emphasizing that his death is not just a family’s tragedy, but a loss for the entire community.
Road Safety Concerns Raised
Beyond grief, the accident has sparked renewed calls for improved road safety in Plattsburgh. Residents have pointed to recurring issues at high-traffic intersections and shopping areas, where reckless driving, speeding, and inattentiveness have been frequently reported.
Community members stress that crashes like Friday’s serve as a reminder that every decision behind the wheel carries weight.
“This isn’t just about who had the right of way,” one resident shared. “We all need to slow down, pay attention, and remember there are real people, real families, and real futures on these roads.”
Honoring Ronnie’s Memory
As the Gamble family faces unimaginable grief, the community is rallying around them with love and support. Many have expressed hope that Ronnie’s memory will inspire safer driving practices and greater care for others on the road.
For now, downtown Plattsburgh remembers a young man gone far too soon, his life cut short but his impact deeply felt by all who knew him.
Our thoughts are with the Gamble family during this heartbreaking time.
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