Police name deceased in crash that backed up I-81 traffic for miles

Published
June 15, 2026
Outcome
Fatal
Location
Cortland, New York
I-81 near Exit 52 toward Cortland
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Incident type
Motorcycle, Crash

Summary

Motorcycle Crash Cortland New York in Cortland, New York: A motorcycle rider, Christopher D. Messerlie, was killed when he struck a guide rail while traveling south on I-81 near Exit 52 toward Cortland. Emergency crews pronounced him dead at the scene and shut down both lanes of the highway, causing a 2‐mile traffic backup.

Publicly reported parties

Name Role Status
Christopher D. Messerlie Unknown Fatal

Original reporting

Police name deceased in crash that backed up I-81 traffic for miles

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